alcohol abuse
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - Excessive and harmful consumption of alcoholic beverages: This term refers to a pattern of drinking that results in harm to one's health, interpersonal relationships, or ability to work. It is characterized by drinking more than recommended limits or in dangerous situations.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The doctor warned him that his alcohol abuse was damaging his liver.
- Employee assistance programs often help workers struggling with alcohol abuse.
- Public health campaigns aim to reduce the incidence of alcohol abuse in the community.
Advanced Usage
- Clinical/Medical Context: In professional settings, "alcohol abuse" is often discussed as a specific diagnostic category distinct from alcohol dependence, though modern classifications may use different terminology.
- The study focused on the social costs of alcohol abuse versus dependence.
Variants and Related Words
- Alcoholism (n): A chronic disease characterized by dependence on alcohol, often involving a more severe and compulsive pattern of use than abuse.
- Binge drinking (n): A pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration to 0.08% or above, typically associated with episodes of alcohol abuse.
- Problem drinking (n): A broader, sometimes less clinical term for drinking that causes problems.
Synonyms
- Excessive drinking
- Harmful use of alcohol
- Alcohol misuse
Related Phrases
- Substance abuse: A broader category that includes the harmful use of drugs and alcohol abuse.
- The clinic treats both drug and alcohol abuse.
Notes on Meaning
This term specifically denotes the act or pattern of harmful drinking. It is not used to describe a single instance of overindulgence but rather a recurring behavior. It is important to distinguish it from casual or social drinking that does not lead to negative consequences.
Noun
- excessive use of alcohol and alcoholic drinks