misuse

(noun) improper or excessive use. Synonyms: abuse. Examples: "Alcohol abuse." "The abuse of public funds."

(verb) apply to a wrong thing or person; apply badly or incorrectly. Synonyms: misapply. Examples: "The words are misapplied in this context." "You are misapplying the name of this religious group."

(verb) change the inherent purpose or function of something. Synonyms: pervert, abuse. Examples: "Don't abuse the system." "The director of the factory misused the funds intended for the health care of his workers."