abuse -
To speak to someone in an insulting or offensive way.
The child was abused by his caregivers, causing long-lasting emotional trauma.
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noun
strife -
Angry or bitter disagreement over fundamental issues; conflict
Congressman Jones thought the town-hall audience would be friendly, but the people's angry statements and questions created an atmosphere of strife .
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verb
trounce -
Defeat heavily in a contest
In the recent French election, eventual winner Macron trounced his opponent by a 2-1 margin.
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verb
harass -
Subject to aggressive pressure or intimidation
Erin didn't know who to turn to when her boss harassed her with uncomfortable physical contact.
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adjective
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abusive -
Being harsh or violent to another person, verbally or physically.
Samantha knew that she had to leave Jeff, because he was often abusive, both in words or actions - but she was afraid of what he would do to her if she did leave.
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nounverb noun
rampage -
A period of violent and uncontrollable behavior, typically involving a large group of people
The businessman had to clean up his store after the damage caused by the rioters' rampage.
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noun
hostage -
A person who is captured and held prisoner and is threatened with injury if a demand is not met
The revolutionaries said that the hostages would be released only after $20 million was deposited in their anonymous Bitcoin account.
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verb
retaliate -
To attack in response to an attack.
Jill didn't like the way that John insulted her, so Jill retaliated by insulting John with an even greater insult.
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verb
pounce -
(of an animal or bird of prey) spring or swoop suddenly so as to catch prey
True to its nature, the cat pounced on the mouse before it could run away.
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verb
sabotage -
Deliberately destroy, damage, or obstruct (something), especially for political or military advantage.
People who aren't willing to better themselves often resort to sabotaging themselves instead of working through the problem.
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verb
undermine -
To gradually weaken the authority or ability of a person or organization
The polarization and infighting of the members of Congress threatened to undermine its ability to pass meaningful legislation.
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atrocity -
An extremely wicked or cruel act, typically one involving physical violence or injury
In a terrible atrocity, after winning the battle the victorious army set fire to the enemy's village, killing most of its inhabitants.
