Drawing on conservation of resources (COR) theory, we examined the link between abusive supervision and subordinates job strain and frustration via subordinates’ work overload and time pressure. Data were collected using time-lagged design from Chinese service sector employees. The results showed that abusive supervision predicts subordinates job strain and frustration both directly and indirectly via work overload and time pressure. The present study elucidates how supervisor abuse affects service workers wellbeing. Also, we highlighted the need for interventions to improve workers wellbeing. Prior studies investigating the effects of abusive supervision in service industry is scant. We investigated the impact of supervisor abuse in Chinese service industry. Thus, the findings add to leadership literature in service sector.