Zen,
Those are great examples, yeah you are definately right about them having seperate nuances.
In regards to my husband and his unwanted ribbing at times about my mental stability, I tell him he is mentally abusing me, messing with my mind, but eventually we make light of it but then again I feel there are times I am being mentally abused. In the long run it is all abuse regardless of which form, just wish we could all know ahead of time when, where
and who will cause this kind of abuse.
Hope you are doing well.
Take care,
"darkeyes"

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON