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B2 adjective 12 min de lecture

abusivo

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces abusivo en 30 secondes
Explication abusivo in your Level:
At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'abusivo' often, but you might hear it when people talk about prices. Imagine you are at a market and a bottle of water costs 10 dollars. You might hear someone say 'Isso é abusivo!' meaning 'That is too much!' or 'That is unfair!' It is a very strong way to say 'expensive.' For now, just remember that it describes something that is 'very bad' because it is 'too much.' You can use it like any other adjective by putting it after the noun: 'preço abusivo' (bad price). Focus on the 'o' for masculine and 'a' for feminine.
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At the A2 level, you can start using 'abusivo' to describe simple unfair situations. You might use it to talk about a boss who makes you work too many hours or a store that has very bad rules. Remember that 'abusivo' is stronger than 'caro' (expensive) or 'ruim' (bad). It means the person in charge is being mean or taking advantage of you. You will see it in simple news headlines about 'preços abusivos' (unfair prices). Try to practice the plural forms: 'preços abusivos' and 'taxas abusivas'. It's a useful word to express frustration when you feel something is not right.
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At the B1 level, you should understand that 'abusivo' is a key word for talking about social issues and consumer rights. You will encounter it in discussions about 'relacionamentos abusivos' (abusive relationships). Here, it describes behavior that is controlling or hurtful. You should also be able to use it in professional contexts, such as describing 'cláusulas abusivas' in a contract. At this level, you start to see the difference between 'excessivo' (just too much) and 'abusivo' (unfairly too much). It is a word that helps you express more complex opinions about justice and fairness in daily life.
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At the B2 level, you should use 'abusivo' with precision across various domains: legal, psychological, and economic. You understand that 'abusivo' implies a violation of a norm or a right. You can participate in debates about 'abuso de poder' (abuse of power) or 'uso abusivo de substâncias' (substance abuse). You are expected to know that this word carries a heavy moral and often legal weight. You should be able to identify 'práticas abusivas' in marketing or labor and explain why they are considered as such. Your use of the word should reflect an understanding of power dynamics and social boundaries.
At the C1 level, 'abusivo' becomes part of your sophisticated vocabulary for analyzing structures of power and systemic issues. You can discuss the nuances between 'ato abusivo,' 'exercício abusivo de um direito,' and 'comportamento abusivo.' You understand the legal implications of the word in different Lusophone jurisdictions (like the Brazilian CDC). You can use it in academic writing to describe exploitative historical regimes or contemporary economic practices. You are also aware of the word's emotional resonance in literature and high-level journalism, using it to evoke a sense of indignation or to call for social reform.
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At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of 'abusivo,' including its most subtle connotations and rhetorical uses. You can use the word to critique complex philosophical concepts, such as the 'uso abusivo da linguagem' in political propaganda or the 'natureza abusiva' of certain ontological frameworks. You understand its etymological roots and how they inform its current legal and social definitions. You can switch between formal legal discourse and informal social critique effortlessly, knowing exactly when 'abusivo' is the most impactful word to use to highlight a breach of ethics, law, or human dignity.
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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

abusivo en 30 secondes

  • Abusivo means abusive, excessive, or exploitative, typically involving a misuse of power or a violation of rights.
  • It is commonly used to describe unfair prices (preços abusivos), contract terms (cláusulas abusivas), and harmful relationships (relacionamentos abusivos).
  • It agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies: abusivo, abusiva, abusivos, abusivas.
  • While it can mean offensive, it is much stronger and more legally/socially charged than simple rudeness.

The Portuguese adjective abusivo is a powerful and multifaceted term that translates most directly to 'abusive,' 'excessive,' or 'exploitative' in English. While it shares a common Latin root with the English word, its application in Portuguese is notably broad, spanning legal, financial, interpersonal, and social contexts. At its core, abusivo describes an action, behavior, or condition that oversteps established boundaries, violates rights, or takes unfair advantage of a position of power. It is not merely a synonym for 'mean' or 'rude'; it implies a structural or moral violation. When a Brazilian or Portuguese person uses this word, they are often signaling a sense of injustice or a breach of a social or legal contract.

O Contexto Jurídico
In legal terms, 'abusivo' is frequently paired with 'cláusula' (clause) or 'prática' (practice). A 'cláusula abusiva' is a contract term that puts the consumer at an extreme disadvantage, often found in fine print that the law deems invalid. This usage is extremely common in consumer protection discussions in Brazil (PROCON) and Portugal.

O banco cobrou juros abusivos na fatura do cartão de crédito, o que gerou uma reclamação formal do cliente.

In interpersonal relationships, the term has gained significant cultural weight in recent years, particularly with the phrase relacionamento abusivo. This refers to a relationship dynamic characterized by emotional, physical, or psychological control and mistreatment. Unlike the English 'abusive,' which can sometimes be used loosely, in Portuguese, calling a relationship 'abusivo' is a serious clinical and social designation that often prompts calls for intervention or support. It describes a pattern of behavior rather than a single isolated incident of anger.

O Contexto Econômico
Economically, 'abusivo' describes prices that are artificially inflated beyond reasonable market standards, especially during crises. If a store triples the price of water during a flood, that price is 'abusivo'. It suggests that the seller is exploiting the vulnerability of the buyer.

A empresa foi multada por publicidade abusiva direcionada a crianças pequenas.

Furthermore, the word appears in discussions regarding the 'uso abusivo de drogas' (substance abuse) or 'uso abusivo de poder' (abuse of power). In these instances, it indicates a lack of moderation or a deliberate misuse of a resource or position. The term carries a heavy moral judgment, suggesting that the actor has failed in their responsibility to act with fairness or self-control. Understanding this word requires recognizing the balance between what is 'uso' (use) and what is 'abuso' (abuse).

Variação de Intensidade
Depending on the noun it modifies, the intensity of 'abusivo' changes. A 'preço abusivo' is a financial annoyance; an 'ato abusivo' by a police officer is a human rights violation. The gravity is dictated by the potential harm caused to the victim.

O comportamento abusivo do treinador levou vários atletas a abandonarem a equipe nacional.

Muitas vítimas demoram a perceber que estão em um ciclo abusivo devido à manipulação psicológica.

Using abusivo correctly requires understanding its gender and number agreement, as it is a standard Portuguese adjective. It changes to abusiva for feminine nouns, abusivos for masculine plural, and abusivas for feminine plural. Because it describes a quality that is often inherent or categorized, it almost always follows the noun it modifies. For example, you would say 'um preço abusivo' (an abusive price) rather than 'um abusivo preço,' which would sound archaic or overly poetic.

Masculine Singular
Used with nouns like 'comportamento', 'preço', 'poder', 'regime', or 'termo'. Example: 'O regime era abusivo e autoritário.'

Aquele contrato contém um termo abusivo que permite o cancelamento sem aviso prévio.

When dealing with feminine nouns, the shift to abusiva is mandatory. This is common with words like 'cláusula' (clause), 'prática' (practice), 'atitude' (attitude), or 'taxa' (fee/rate). If you are describing a fee that is too high, you would say 'uma taxa abusiva.' It is important to note that the adjective describes the nature of the fee itself, implying it shouldn't exist in that form or amount.

Feminine Singular
Used with nouns like 'cláusula', 'atitude', 'publicidade', 'cobrança'. Example: 'A cobrança de estacionamento aqui é abusiva.'

O juiz considerou a demissão do funcionário como um ato abusivo da empresa.

In the plural, the word expands to abusivos and abusivas. This is essential when discussing multiple instances of bad behavior or several unfair prices. For instance, 'preços abusivos' is a common headline in Brazilian news during periods of high inflation or shortages. It captures the collective frustration of the population against retailers perceived as greedy.

Plural Forms
Masculine: 'Estes juros são abusivos.' Feminine: 'As condições de trabalho eram abusivas.'

O governo prometeu fiscalizar os preços abusivos dos combustíveis nos postos.

Finally, when using abusivo to describe people, it is usually mediated through their behavior or their role in a relationship. While you can say 'Ele é um homem abusivo,' it is more frequent to hear 'Ele tem um comportamento abusivo.' This focuses the adjective on the quality of the actions rather than defining the person's entire essence, though in common parlance, 'parceiro abusivo' (abusive partner) is a standard and very serious label.

Identificar sinais abusivos no início de um namoro pode evitar traumas futuros.

The word abusivo is omnipresent in Lusophone media and daily life, though the specific 'flavor' of its usage depends on the setting. If you are watching the evening news in Brazil, you are almost guaranteed to hear it in the context of consumer rights. Reporters often interview angry shoppers at supermarkets or gas stations who describe the rising costs of living as abusivo. In this context, it acts as a linguistic weapon for the 'little guy' against large corporations or perceived market manipulation.

No Jornalismo e Noticiário
News anchors use it to describe government overreach, illegal police actions, or unfair market prices. It is a standard term in investigative journalism regarding corporate malpractice.

'O aumento de 50% na conta de luz foi considerado abusivo pela justiça', anunciou o jornalista.

In the legal world, abusivo is a technical term. Lawyers use it in courtrooms to invalidate contracts or to defend victims of domestic violence. If you ever find yourself signing a lease or a bank contract in a Portuguese-speaking country, you might hear a consultant or a friend warn you: 'Cuidado, esta cláusula parece abusiva.' They are warning you that the contract is giving the other party too much power, which might even be illegal under local consumer protection laws.

Em Redes Sociais e Podcasts
Influencers and therapists use the word constantly to discuss mental health. You will find thousands of videos titled 'Como identificar um relacionamento abusivo' or 'Sinais de um chefe abusivo'.

A influenciadora digital compartilhou seu relato sobre como saiu de um namoro abusivo.

In academic and medical circles, specifically regarding public health, you will hear 'uso abusivo de substâncias.' This is the formal way to talk about drug or alcohol abuse in a clinical setting. Instead of using more stigmatizing words, researchers prefer abusivo because it describes the pattern of behavior (using something in a way that causes harm) rather than just the substance itself. Similarly, in sociology, 'trabalho abusivo' refers to labor conditions that border on exploitation or modern slavery.

No Ambiente de Trabalho
Employees might use the word 'abusivo' to describe a boss who demands overtime without pay or uses 'assédio moral' (workplace bullying). It is a key word in labor rights disputes.

O uso abusivo de álcool é um problema de saúde pública que afeta muitas famílias.

O policial foi afastado por exercer seu poder de forma abusiva durante a manifestação.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using abusivo is using it as a direct translation for every instance of 'offensive.' While 'abusivo' can indeed describe offensive behavior, it is usually reserved for situations involving a power imbalance or a violation of rights. If someone simply says something mean to you on the street, calling them 'abusivo' might sound a bit too formal or legally charged. In that case, 'ofensivo,' 'grosseiro,' or 'mal-educado' would be much more natural.

Mistake: Overusing it for 'Rude'
Don't say 'Ele foi abusivo' just because someone didn't hold the door open. Use 'grosseiro' for rudeness and reserve 'abusivo' for exploitation or mistreatment.

Errado: O garçom foi abusivo porque esqueceu meu pedido. (Unless he was actually harassing you, this is too strong).

Another common error is failing to match the gender of the adjective with the noun. English speakers often default to the masculine '-o' ending. However, because 'abusivo' is so often used with feminine nouns like 'cláusula,' 'taxa,' or 'atitude,' forgetting to say 'cláusula abusiva' is a clear marker of a non-native speaker. Always check the gender of the noun you are describing.

Mistake: Gender Disagreement
Saying 'uma prática abusivo' instead of 'uma prática abusiva'. Nouns ending in -a, -ção, or -dade are usually feminine.

Correto: A empresa impôs condições abusivas aos seus estagiários.

There is also a subtle mistake regarding the 'false friend' aspect. While 'abusivo' and 'abusive' are very similar, the English 'abusive' is often used as a synonym for 'profane' (e.g., 'abusive language'). In Portuguese, while 'linguagem abusiva' exists, it sounds like a technical term for harassment. If you just mean someone is swearing a lot, 'linguagem obscena' or 'palavrões' is more appropriate. Using 'abusivo' implies a systematic misuse of language to hurt or control someone.

Mistake: Confusing with Profanity
If someone is just cursing, they are being 'vulgar' or 'desbocado'. They are 'abusivo' if their words are part of an exploitative or controlling pattern.

A lei protege as crianças contra qualquer tipo de conteúdo abusivo na internet.

Muitos consumidores não sabem que cobrar por orçamento é uma prática abusiva em certos estados.

Because abusivo is such a strong word, it is useful to know synonyms and related terms that can help you express different shades of meaning. Depending on whether you are talking about prices, behavior, or laws, you might want to choose a more specific adjective. For example, if something is just 'too much' but not necessarily illegal or exploitative, excessivo is a safer, more neutral choice. It lacks the moral condemnation that abusivo carries.

Abusivo vs. Excessivo
'Excessivo' means too much in quantity (e.g., 'sal excessivo'). 'Abusivo' means the excess is unfair or violates a right (e.g., 'preço abusivo').

O calor hoje está excessivo, mas não diríamos que o clima é 'abusivo'.

When talking about people or regimes that use their power harshly, autoritário (authoritarian) or tirânico (tyrannical) are excellent alternatives. These words focus on the style of leadership or control. Abusivo might be the result of being autoritário, but it specifically highlights the misuse of that authority to harm others. In a workplace context, explorador (exploitative) is often used interchangeably with abusivo when discussing low wages or long hours.

Abusivo vs. Ofensivo
'Ofensivo' focuses on the hurt feelings or the insult (e.g., 'um comentário ofensivo'). 'Abusivo' focuses on the violation of a boundary or power dynamic.

O comportamento do chefe era tão autoritário que beirava o abusivo.

For interpersonal relationships, terms like tóxico (toxic) have become very popular. While 'relacionamento abusivo' is a more formal and serious term often used in legal or psychological contexts, 'relacionamento tóxico' is common in casual conversation. A toxic relationship is unhealthy, but an abusive one implies a more severe pattern of control or harm. Another useful word is arbitrário (arbitrary), which describes actions taken without reason or based solely on one's whim, often seen in 'prisão arbitrária' or 'decisão abusiva'.

Abusivo vs. Injusto
'Injusto' (unfair) is a broad term for anything that isn't right. 'Abusivo' is a specific type of injustice where power or resources are misused.

A decisão do juiz foi considerada arbitrária e abusiva pelos advogados de defesa.

Não aceite um tratamento desrespeitoso; isso pode ser o começo de algo abusivo.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

In ancient Latin, 'abuti' could also mean to use something up completely. Today, the word has shifted focus from 'using up' to 'using wrongly' in a moral or legal sense.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ɐ.bu.ˈzi.vu/
US /a.bu.ˈzi.vu/
The stress is on the penultimate syllable: a-bu-ZI-vo.
Rime avec
decisivo incisivo exclusivo passivo ativo incentivo objetivo substantivo
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing the 's' as an 's' sound (like 'bus'). In Portuguese, 's' between vowels always sounds like a 'z'.
  • Pronouncing the final 'o' as a strong 'oh'. It should be a soft 'oo' sound (/u/).
  • Stress on the first syllable. It must be on the 'zi'.
  • Making the 'v' sound like a 'b'. Portuguese 'v' is labiodental, distinct from 'b'.
  • Missing the nasal quality if it were 'abusivo' vs 'abusivamente' (though not in this word specifically).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'abusive'.

Écriture 4/5

Requires correct gender/number agreement which can be tricky for beginners.

Expression orale 4/5

The 's' sounding like 'z' is a common pronunciation hurdle.

Écoute 3/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to pick out in speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

abuso usar justo preço poder

Apprends ensuite

autoritário exploração indenização cláusula assédio

Avancé

hermenêutica arbitrariedade leonino insidioso prevaricação

Grammaire à connaître

Adjective Agreement

O preço (m) é abusivo (m). A taxa (f) é abusiva (f).

Position of Adjectives

Usually follows the noun: 'comportamento abusivo'.

S between vowels

The 's' in 'abusivo' sounds like 'z' because it's between 'u' and 'i'.

Adverbs from Adjectives

Add '-mente' to the feminine form: abusiva + mente = abusivamente.

Use of 'Ser' for permanent qualities

A cláusula É abusiva (it is inherently unfair).

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Exemples par niveau

1

O preço do café é abusivo.

The price of the coffee is abusive (unfairly high).

Simple Subject + Verb + Adjective structure.

2

Isso é um ato abusivo.

That is an abusive act.

Using 'um' (masculine article) with 'ato' and 'abusivo'.

3

Ela tem um chefe abusivo.

She has an abusive boss.

Adjective follows the noun 'chefe'.

4

Não pague taxas abusivas.

Do not pay abusive fees.

Plural feminine agreement: taxas + abusivas.

5

O contrato é abusivo.

The contract is abusive.

Linking verb 'ser' used for a permanent quality.

6

Eles vendem pão por um valor abusivo.

They sell bread for an abusive value.

Prepositional phrase 'por um valor abusivo'.

7

A regra da escola é abusiva.

The school rule is abusive.

Feminine singular agreement: regra + abusiva.

8

Eu não gosto de comportamento abusivo.

I don't like abusive behavior.

Direct object with 'gostar de' + noun + adjective.

1

Muitas lojas cobram juros abusivos no cartão.

Many stores charge abusive interest on the card.

Plural masculine: juros abusivos.

2

O uso abusivo do celular faz mal à saúde.

Abusive (excessive) use of the cell phone is bad for your health.

Noun phrase 'uso abusivo' acting as the subject.

3

A cláusula do contrato parece abusiva para mim.

The contract clause seems abusive to me.

Verb 'parecer' (to seem) followed by the adjective.

4

O governo quer evitar aumentos abusivos nos preços.

The government wants to avoid abusive increases in prices.

Plural masculine: aumentos abusivos.

5

Ele saiu de um relacionamento abusivo ano passado.

He left an abusive relationship last year.

Past tense verb 'sair' with 'de um relacionamento abusivo'.

6

Aquela propaganda é abusiva porque engana as pessoas.

That advertisement is abusive because it deceives people.

Conjunction 'porque' explaining the adjective.

7

Não é permitido ter um comportamento abusivo no trabalho.

It is not allowed to have abusive behavior at work.

Impersonal 'não é permitido' + infinitive 'ter'.

8

Os preços dos aluguéis estão abusivos nesta cidade.

Rent prices are abusive in this city.

Plural masculine: preços ... estão abusivos.

1

É importante identificar os sinais de um parceiro abusivo.

It's important to identify the signs of an abusive partner.

Infinitive 'identificar' as the subject of the sentence.

2

A justiça considerou a cobrança da taxa como abusiva.

The court considered the fee collection as abusive.

Verb 'considerar' + object + 'como' + adjective.

3

O uso abusivo de álcool destrói muitas famílias.

The abusive use of alcohol destroys many families.

Abstract noun 'uso' modified by 'abusivo'.

4

Ela denunciou o comportamento abusivo do seu supervisor.

She reported the abusive behavior of her supervisor.

Verb 'denunciar' with a specific noun phrase.

5

Contratos com letras miúdas costumam ter cláusulas abusivas.

Contracts with fine print usually have abusive clauses.

Verb 'costumar' (to usually do) + infinitive 'ter'.

6

O Procon multa empresas que praticam preços abusivos.

Procon (consumer agency) fines companies that practice abusive prices.

Relative clause 'que praticam preços abusivos'.

7

Ninguém deve aceitar um tratamento abusivo em silêncio.

No one should accept abusive treatment in silence.

Modal verb 'dever' + 'aceitar'.

8

A publicidade abusiva infantil é proibida por lei.

Abusive advertising for children is prohibited by law.

Compound adjective phrase 'publicidade abusiva infantil'.

1

O exercício abusivo do direito pode gerar dever de indenizar.

The abusive exercise of a right can generate a duty to compensate.

Legal terminology: 'exercício abusivo do direito'.

2

O regime ditatorial impôs leis abusivas à população.

The dictatorial regime imposed abusive laws on the population.

Verb 'impor' (to impose) something to someone.

3

A vítima de um relacionamento abusivo precisa de apoio psicológico.

The victim of an abusive relationship needs psychological support.

Noun 'vítima' followed by 'de um relacionamento abusivo'.

4

Muitos consideram o marketing agressivo como uma prática abusiva.

Many consider aggressive marketing as an abusive practice.

Verb 'considerar' + object + 'como' + adjective.

5

A polícia foi acusada de uso abusivo da força durante o protesto.

The police were accused of abusive use of force during the protest.

Passive voice 'foi acusada' + 'de uso abusivo'.

6

O juiz anulou a sentença por considerá-la abusiva e sem provas.

The judge annulled the sentence for considering it abusive and without evidence.

Clitic pronoun '-la' attached to 'considerar' referring to 'sentença'.

7

A exploração abusiva de recursos naturais ameaça o planeta.

The abusive exploitation of natural resources threatens the planet.

Feminine agreement: exploração + abusiva.

8

Não confunda uma crítica construtiva com um comentário abusivo.

Do not confuse constructive criticism with an abusive comment.

Imperative 'não confunda' + 'com'.

1

A doutrina jurídica debate os limites do poder abusivo do Estado.

Legal doctrine debates the limits of the State's abusive power.

Formal academic vocabulary: 'doutrina jurídica'.

2

O conceito de relacionamento abusivo evoluiu significativamente na última década.

The concept of an abusive relationship has evolved significantly in the last decade.

Present perfect 'evoluiu' with adverb 'significativamente'.

3

A empresa foi condenada por danos morais devido a práticas abusivas recorrentes.

The company was sentenced for moral damages due to recurring abusive practices.

Legal term 'danos morais' linked to 'práticas abusivas'.

4

O autor descreve de forma visceral o ambiente abusivo da prisão.

The author describes in a visceral way the abusive environment of the prison.

Adverbial phrase 'de forma visceral' modifying the description.

5

É imperativo desconstruir a cultura que normaliza o assédio abusivo.

It is imperative to deconstruct the culture that normalizes abusive harassment.

Formal structure 'É imperativo' + infinitive.

6

A taxação abusiva sobre produtos básicos penaliza as classes mais baixas.

Abusive taxation on basic products penalizes the lower classes.

Verb 'penalizar' with a direct object.

7

O relatório aponta para um padrão abusivo de conduta por parte da diretoria.

The report points to an abusive pattern of conduct on the part of the board.

Prepositional phrase 'por parte de'.

8

A manipulação psicológica é a faceta mais insidiosa de um vínculo abusivo.

Psychological manipulation is the most insidious facet of an abusive bond.

Superlative structure 'a faceta mais insidiosa'.

1

A hermenêutica do contrato deve rechaçar qualquer interpretação abusiva das normas.

The hermeneutics of the contract must reject any abusive interpretation of the norms.

High-level legal term 'hermenêutica'.

2

O discurso político contemporâneo muitas vezes flerta com o uso abusivo da retórica.

Contemporary political discourse often flirts with the abusive use of rhetoric.

Metaphorical use of 'flertar com'.

3

A subjetividade da vítima é frequentemente obliterada em contextos abusivos sistêmicos.

The victim's subjectivity is frequently obliterated in systemic abusive contexts.

Passive voice with the verb 'obliterar'.

4

A transigência com o poder abusivo é o primeiro passo para a erosão democrática.

Compromise with abusive power is the first step toward democratic erosion.

Complex noun phrase as the subject.

5

O filósofo argumenta que a própria linguagem pode exercer um controle abusivo sobre o pensamento.

The philosopher argues that language itself can exert abusive control over thought.

Subordinate clause 'que a própria linguagem...'.

6

A reincidência em condutas abusivas denota uma falha estrutural na governança corporativa.

Recurrence in abusive conduct denotes a structural failure in corporate governance.

Formal verb 'denotar' (to denote/indicate).

7

Sob a égide da segurança nacional, muitos atos abusivos foram perpetrados historicamente.

Under the aegis of national security, many abusive acts were historically perpetrated.

Formal phrase 'Sob a égide de'.

8

A desproporcionalidade entre o agravo e a resposta sugere um caráter nitidamente abusivo.

The disproportionality between the grievance and the response suggests a clearly abusive character.

Noun 'desproporcionalidade' as the central concept.

Collocations courantes

preço abusivo
relacionamento abusivo
cláusula abusiva
uso abusivo
poder abusivo
prática abusiva
cobrança abusiva
comportamento abusivo
publicidade abusiva
ato abusivo

Phrases Courantes

Isso é abusivo!

— That is abusive/unfair! Used to express immediate indignation.

Dez euros por uma água? Isso é abusivo!

Parar o ciclo abusivo

— To stop the abusive cycle. Used in therapy and social work.

É difícil parar o ciclo abusivo sem ajuda externa.

Denunciar abuso

— To report abuse. While 'abuso' is the noun, it's the core action related to 'abusivo'.

Você deve denunciar qualquer prática abusiva que presenciar.

Taxas abusivas

— Abusive fees. Very common in banking and services.

O banco removeu as taxas abusivas após a reclamação.

Termo abusivo

— Abusive term. Refers to unfair wording in a legal document.

O juiz considerou o termo abusivo e nulo.

Assédio abusivo

— Abusive harassment. Often used for workplace bullying.

O assédio abusivo levou à demissão do gerente.

Poder abusivo

— Abusive power. Misuse of authority.

Lutamos contra o poder abusivo das grandes corporações.

Controle abusivo

— Abusive control. Specifically in emotional contexts.

O controle abusivo é um sinal de alerta no namoro.

Tratamento abusivo

— Abusive treatment. How one is handled by another.

Ninguém merece receber um tratamento abusivo.

Publicidade abusiva

— Abusive advertising. Marketing that exploits vulnerabilities.

A publicidade abusiva deve ser regulada pelo Estado.

Souvent confondu avec

abusivo vs abusado

In Brazil, 'abusado' often means 'cheeky', 'bold', or 'daring' in an informal way. 'Abusivo' is always negative and serious.

abusivo vs ofensivo

Something 'ofensivo' hurts feelings; something 'abusivo' violates rights or power structures.

abusivo vs excessivo

Something 'excessivo' is just too much; 'abusivo' is too much and unfair/illegal.

Expressions idiomatiques

"meter a faca"

— To 'put the knife in'—slang for charging an 'abusivo' price.

Aquele restaurante meteu a faca na conta!

informal
"preço de morte"

— A 'death price'—an extremely high and unfair price.

As máscaras estavam com preço de morte na farmácia.

informal
"olho da cara"

— To cost the 'eye of the face'—very expensive, often implying it's unfair.

Aquele concerto custou o olho da cara, foi abusivo.

informal
"mão de ferro"

— Iron hand—ruling in an 'abusivo' or authoritarian way.

Ele governa a empresa com mão de ferro.

neutral
"pisar no pescoço"

— To step on the neck—to treat someone in a very 'abusivo' and oppressive way.

O patrão adora pisar no pescoço dos funcionários.

informal
"abuso de confiança"

— Abuse of trust—taking advantage of someone's faith in you.

O que ele fez foi um claro abuso de confiança.

neutral
"lei do mais forte"

— Law of the strongest—where the powerful act in an 'abusivo' way without consequences.

Naquela favela, impera a lei do mais forte.

neutral
"fazer gato e sapato"

— To make cat and shoe—to treat someone like an object or 'abusively'.

Ela faz gato e sapato do marido.

informal
"beber o sangue"

— To drink the blood—to exploit someone 'abusively'.

Essas empresas querem beber o sangue do trabalhador.

informal
"dar um murro na mesa"

— To punch the table—to stop an 'abusivo' situation through force or authority.

O diretor deu um murro na mesa e acabou com o abuso.

informal

Facile à confondre

abusivo vs Abusado

Similar root and sound.

Abusado usually refers to a person's cheeky attitude (informal), while abusivo refers to a violation of power or rules.

Ele é um menino abusado (cheeky boy) vs. Ele tem um comportamento abusivo (abusive behavior).

abusivo vs Invasivo

Both end in -ivo and relate to boundaries.

Invasivo means intruding into space or privacy; abusivo means taking advantage or mistreating.

O exame médico foi invasivo vs. O preço do exame foi abusivo.

abusivo vs Agressivo

Often happen together in relationships.

Agressivo refers to the force or violence; abusivo refers to the underlying pattern of exploitation/power.

Ele foi agressivo na discussão vs. Ele mantém um controle abusivo sobre ela.

abusivo vs Opressivo

Similar feeling of weight or control.

Opressivo is the feeling of being weighed down; abusivo is the specific act of misusing power.

O clima na sala estava opressivo vs. O chefe tomou uma decisão abusiva.

abusivo vs Explorador

Synonyms in labor contexts.

Explorador focuses on the gain the abuser gets; abusivo focuses on the nature of the act itself.

O sistema explorador de trabalho vs. O contrato abusivo de trabalho.

Structures de phrases

A1

O [noun] é abusivo.

O preço é abusivo.

A2

Eles têm [noun plural] abusivos.

Eles têm juros abusivos.

B1

É proibido ter um [noun] abusivo.

É proibido ter um comportamento abusivo.

B2

A justiça considerou a [noun] abusiva.

A justiça considerou a taxa abusiva.

C1

Devido a [noun] abusiva, a empresa foi multada.

Devido à publicidade abusiva, a empresa foi multada.

C1

O [noun] caracteriza-se por ser abusivo.

O regime caracteriza-se por ser abusivo.

C2

Sob a ótica de um [noun] abusivo...

Sob a ótica de um poder abusivo...

C2

A natureza abusiva de [noun] é evidente.

A natureza abusiva do contrato é evidente.

Famille de mots

Noms

abuso (abuse)
abusador (abuser)
abusadora (female abuser)

Verbes

abusar (to abuse/to take advantage of)

Adjectifs

abusivo (abusive)
abusada (cheeky/bold - informal Brazilian usage)

Apparenté

usar (to use)
uso (use)
usuário (user)
usufruir (to enjoy/use a right)
desuso (disuse)
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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very common in daily life, especially regarding prices and relationships.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'abusivo' for simple rudeness. → Ele foi grosseiro.

    If a waiter is just impolite, he is 'grosseiro'. He is only 'abusivo' if he is exploiting you or violating your rights.

  • Saying 'uma taxa abusivo'. → Uma taxa abusiva.

    'Taxa' is a feminine noun, so the adjective must end in 'a'.

  • Pronouncing the 's' as in 'sun'. → Pronounce it like a 'z'.

    In Portuguese, 's' between vowels (u and i) always has a 'z' sound.

  • Confusing 'abusivo' with 'abusado'. → Ele é abusivo (He is abusive) vs. Ele é abusado (He is cheeky).

    In Brazil, 'abusado' is often a lighthearted way to call someone bold or cheeky. 'Abusivo' is always negative.

  • Using 'abusivo' to describe a person's physical appearance. → Use other adjectives like 'feio' or 'estranho'.

    'Abusivo' only describes behavior, prices, or rules, never how someone looks.

Astuces

Gender Matching

Always match 'abusivo' with the noun. Remember: 'cláusula abusiva' but 'preço abusivo'. This is the most common mistake for learners.

Cognate Alert

It looks like 'abusive', and it mostly is! But remember it's used much more for prices and contracts in Portuguese than in English.

Consumer Indignation

Use 'Isso é abusivo!' when you feel a price is a scam. It's a very common and effective way to express frustration in Brazil.

Serious Accusations

Calling a relationship 'abusivo' is a serious matter. Ensure you understand the weight of the word before using it casually.

The 'Z' Sound

Make sure the 's' sounds like a 'z'. Practice saying 'a-bu-zi-vo' slowly until it feels natural.

Contract Review

If you see the word 'abusivo' in a legal context, it often means a clause that can be nullified by a judge.

Adverbial Form

Use 'abusivamente' to describe how someone is acting. 'Ele agiu abusivamente' (He acted abusively).

Indignation Tone

In Portuguese, adjectives like 'abusivo' are often emphasized with a slightly higher pitch to show emotion.

Check the Noun

Before using 'abusivo', ask yourself: Is there a power imbalance or a violation of rights? If not, maybe use 'excessivo' or 'ruim'.

Word Family

Learning 'abuso' (noun) and 'abusar' (verb) at the same time as 'abusivo' will help you internalize the concept faster.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Abuse' + 'Ive'. If someone is 'Abus-ive', they are using their power 'excess-ive-ly' or 'wrong-ly'.

Association visuelle

Imagine a giant price tag with teeth biting a small wallet. That visual represents 'preço abusivo'.

Word Web

abuso poder preço justiça lei vítima contrato limite

Défi

Write three things in your life that you consider 'abusivo' (like an expensive phone bill) and three things that are 'justo'.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Latin 'abusivus', which comes from the verb 'abusus' (past participle of 'abuti'). The prefix 'ab-' means 'away from' or 'wrongly', and 'uti' means 'to use'.

Sens originel : To use wrongly, to consume entirely, or to misuse.

Romance (Latin-based).

Contexte culturel

Be careful when using this word to describe people directly, as it is a very serious accusation of criminal or immoral behavior.

English speakers should note that 'abusivo' is the standard term for 'abusive' in domestic contexts, just like in English, but it is much more common in legal/consumer contexts than 'abusive' is in the US/UK (where 'unfair' or 'exploitative' might be used).

Lei Maria da Penha (Brazil) - key law dealing with 'comportamento abusivo'. Código de Defesa do Consumidor (Brazil) - defines 'práticas abusivas'. Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente (ECA) - protects against 'uso abusivo' of child labor.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Consumer Rights

  • Preço abusivo
  • Prática abusiva
  • Cobrança abusiva
  • Reclamar de taxa abusiva

Relationships

  • Relacionamento abusivo
  • Parceiro abusivo
  • Ciclo abusivo
  • Sinais de comportamento abusivo

Legal/Contracts

  • Cláusula abusiva
  • Termo abusivo
  • Ato abusivo
  • Exercício abusivo de direito

Politics/Authority

  • Poder abusivo
  • Abuso de autoridade
  • Regime abusivo
  • Medida abusiva

Health/Substances

  • Uso abusivo de álcool
  • Uso abusivo de drogas
  • Consumo abusivo
  • Tratamento para uso abusivo

Amorces de conversation

"Você já teve que pagar um preço abusivo por algo simples?"

"Como podemos identificar um relacionamento abusivo logo no início?"

"Você acha que as redes sociais incentivam o uso abusivo do celular?"

"O que você faria se encontrasse uma cláusula abusiva em um contrato?"

"Na sua opinião, qual é a prática abusiva mais comum das empresas hoje?"

Sujets d'écriture

Reflita sobre uma vez que você presenciou um comportamento abusivo e como reagiu.

Descreva o impacto que preços abusivos têm na vida das pessoas com baixa renda.

Escreva sobre a importância de leis que combatem o relacionamento abusivo.

Como definir a linha entre um uso normal e um uso abusivo da tecnologia?

Analise por que algumas pessoas demoram a perceber que estão em uma situação abusiva.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, but it's usually better to say 'uma pessoa abusiva' or 'um parceiro abusivo'. It describes their pattern of behavior. If you just mean they are being mean right now, 'grosseiro' is better.

Yes, in Portuguese, 'abusivo' always carries a negative connotation of unfairness, excess, or violation. There is no 'good' way to be abusivo.

'Abuso' is the noun (the act of abuse), and 'abusivo' is the adjective (the quality of being abusive). Example: 'O abuso (noun) de poder é um ato abusivo (adjective).'

You say 'relacionamento abusivo'. This is the standard term used by psychologists and the media.

No, but it is used in 'uso abusivo de drogas', which refers to the harmful pattern of using drugs, often leading to addiction.

Usually no. For smells or sounds, 'insuportável' (unbearable) or 'muito forte' (very strong) are better. 'Abusivo' requires a moral or legal boundary to be crossed.

It is a neutral-to-formal word. It is used in legal documents but also in everyday complaints about prices.

If the noun is masculine, use 'abusivos' (ex: preços abusivos). If the noun is feminine, use 'abusivas' (ex: taxas abusivas).

The meaning is identical. Both regions use it for consumer rights, legal contexts, and relationships.

It's a marketing practice that takes advantage of fear, superstition, or the vulnerability of children. It is often illegal.

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Teste-toi 100 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Portuguese describing an unfair price at a restaurant.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'She is in an abusive relationship.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce the word 'abusivo' and record it. Ensure the 's' sounds like 'z'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Não aceite um comportamento abusivo no trabalho.' What should you not accept?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 100 correct

Perfect score!

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