use poorly
[/juːz ˈpɔːrli/]
verb phrase
usar mal, utilizar inadequadamente, fazer mau uso de
1. to employ or operate something in an ineffective, incorrect, or careless manner
He used the tool poorly and damaged it in the process.
Ele usou a ferramenta mal e a danificou no processo.
2. to mishandle or abuse something that one has been given or entrusted with
The company used the customer data poorly, violating privacy agreements.
A empresa fez mau uso dos dados dos clientes, violando acordos de privacidade.
3. to fail to maximize the benefit or potential of something available
She used her time poorly and didn't prepare for the exam.
Ela utilizou mal seu tempo e não se preparou para a prova.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian contexts to criticize inefficiency or mismanagement. In Brazilian Portuguese, 'fazer mau uso de' is often used in formal/legal contexts (especially regarding resources or data), while 'usar mal' is more colloquial. The concept reflects cultural values around resourcefulness and proper stewardship in both cultures.
NYC Slang
mess it up, botch it, bungle
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