use improperly

[juːz ɪmˈprɑːpərli]
verb phrase
usar indevidamente
1. to employ or operate something in a way that is incorrect, inappropriate, or not according to intended guidelines
The employee was fired for using improperly the company's equipment for personal projects.
O funcionário foi demitido por usar indevidamente os equipamentos da empresa em projetos pessoais.
2. to apply a tool, substance, or method in a manner that violates established rules or best practices
Using improperly prescribed medications can be dangerous to your health.
Usar indevidamente medicamentos prescritos pode ser perigoso para sua saúde.
3. to misuse or abuse something through incorrect application
He was warned about using improperly the access code to restricted areas.
Ele foi advertido sobre usar indevidamente o código de acesso para áreas restritas.
In both Brazilian and American English contexts, 'use improperly' is commonly found in formal settings such as workplace policies, legal documents, and educational materials. In Brazil, this phrase is frequently encountered in corporate compliance training and academic dishonesty policies. The term carries a tone of formal disapproval and is often associated with violations of rules or professional standards.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
misuseabusemisapplymishandleemploy wronglyuse incorrectly
Antonyms / Antônimos
use properlyuse correctlyuse appropriatelyhandle correctly

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
usar indevidamente
most common and formal usage
General Brazilian
fazer mau uso de
alternative expression meaning to make bad use of
São Paulo
usar de forma inadequada
more descriptive variation
Portugal
usar inadequadamente
common European Portuguese variant

Related Words

misuseabuseimproperimproprietymalusemisapplicationincorrect usage

Related Idioms & Phrases

abuse a privilege
misuse of power
make improper use of something
take advantage of something improperly
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