Definition

1. Noun:
   • Excessive, improper, or harmful use of drugs: The act or pattern of using drugs, especially psychoactive substances, in amounts or with methods that are harmful to oneself or others. This typically refers to the non-medical use of substances, leading to negative health, social, or legal consequences.

Usage

• The term "drug abuse" is used to describe a serious societal and personal health issue. It focuses on the pattern of use rather than a single instance.
• It is often discussed in medical, legal, social, and public policy contexts.
• It functions as a compound noun, typically used without a determiner in general statements (e.g., "combatting drug abuse") or with determiners like "the," "his," "her," or "their" when referring to specific instances.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The community center offers programs to prevent drug abuse among teenagers.
  • Long-term drug abuse can lead to severe health complications.
  • He sought help for his drug abuse.

Advanced Usage

• "to fall into drug abuse": to begin a pattern of harmful drug use.
  • After losing his job, he sadly fell into drug abuse.
• "cycle of drug abuse": a recurring pattern where drug use leads to problems that in turn lead to more drug use.
  • Breaking the cycle of drug abuse requires comprehensive support.

Variants and Related Words

• Substance abuse (n): A more modern and often broader term that includes the abuse of alcohol and other substances in addition to illicit drugs. It is frequently used interchangeably with "drug abuse."
  • The clinic specializes in treating substance abuse.
• Drug abuser (n): A person who engages in drug abuse.
  • Effective rehabilitation programs are crucial for drug abusers.

Synonyms

• Substance misuse: Often used in formal or medical contexts with a similar meaning.
• Drug addiction: While related, "addiction" specifically implies a state of physical or psychological dependence, whereas "abuse" can refer to harmful use that may not yet have led to addiction.

Related Phrases

• Drug abuse prevention: Efforts and programs aimed at stopping drug abuse before it starts.
  • The school implemented a strong drug abuse prevention curriculum.
• Drug abuse treatment: Medical and therapeutic interventions for individuals suffering from drug abuse.
  • Access to quality drug abuse treatment is essential.

Related Idioms

• "A gateway to drug abuse": Something (often a less harmful substance or behavior) that is seen as leading to more serious drug abuse.
  • Some people believe that marijuana can be a gateway to drug abuse, though this is debated.

Noun

1. excessive use of drugs