# abuse vs amuse

> English confusable word pair

## The two words

### abuse
*noun · IPA /əˈbjuːs/ · frequency rank #2,190*
Improper treatment or usage; application to a wrong or bad purpose; an unjust, corrupt or wrongful practice or custom.

### amuse
*verb · IPA /əˈmjuːz/ · frequency rank #24,652*
To entertain or occupy (someone or something) in a pleasant manner; to stir (someone) with pleasing emotions.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/vs/abuse-vs-amuse