abusive language

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"The reference to foul and abusive language only applies if it is causing harassment, alarm or distress to another person - not if it is casual swearing."

From BBC • Jul. 25, 2025

Ribbing the company and its policies are still within the rules, as long as they aren’t attacking individuals or using abusive language.

From New York Times • Apr. 8, 2024

Per ABC, Scotland's new Hate Crime and Public Order Act makes it unlawful to incite hatred via threatening or abusive language on the basis age, disability, religion, sexual orientation and transgender identity.

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2024

While complaints about officers’ use of disrespectful and abusive language toward civilians are nothing new, discipline in such cases is rare.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 4, 2023

Revile not with words him whom thou hast to correct with deeds: the punishment which the unhappy wretch is doomed to suffer is sufficient, without the addition of abusive language.

From The History of Don Quixote de la Mancha by Cervantes Saavedra, Miguel de