exploit
To make full use of and derive benefit from a resource or opportunity. It can also mean to treat someone unfairly by benefiting from their work or vulnerability without providing adequate compensation.
Examples
3 of 5He knows how to exploit his natural talent for cooking to host successful dinner parties.
He knows how to make the most of his natural ability to cook to host successful dinner parties.
The government sought to exploit the mineral resources found in the remote northern region.
The state intended to utilize the minerals located in the distant northern area for economic gain.
You're just exploiting my kindness because you know I can't say no to a friend.
You are taking unfair advantage of my nice personality because you know I find it hard to refuse friends.
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'Ex-Plot': you are creating a 'plot' to get something 'ex' (out of) a situation or person.
Quick Quiz
The company was accused of trying to ______ its workers by making them work long hours for very low pay.
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Examples
He knows how to exploit his natural talent for cooking to host successful dinner parties.
everydayHe knows how to make the most of his natural ability to cook to host successful dinner parties.
The government sought to exploit the mineral resources found in the remote northern region.
formalThe state intended to utilize the minerals located in the distant northern area for economic gain.
You're just exploiting my kindness because you know I can't say no to a friend.
informalYou are taking unfair advantage of my nice personality because you know I find it hard to refuse friends.
This research study aims to exploit historical data to predict future economic trends.
academicThe academic paper intends to use past data sets to forecast upcoming financial patterns.
Our company must exploit new market opportunities in Asia to stay ahead of the competition.
businessThe firm needs to take advantage of new business chances in Asia to remain competitive.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
exploit a vulnerability
to take advantage of a weak spot, often in computer security
exploit to the full
to use something as much as possible
exploit for gain
to use a situation specifically to get money or power
Often Confused With
Explore means to travel through a place to learn about it, while exploit means to use it for benefit.
Export means to send goods to another country for sale, which is a specific type of trade.
Usage Notes
When used in technical or business contexts (like 'exploit a resource'), the word is often neutral. However, when used regarding people, it almost always carries a negative connotation of unfairness or greed.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse the verb 'exploit' (stress on 'ploit') with the noun 'exploit' (stress on 'ex'), which means a daring or heroic deed.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Ex-Plot': you are creating a 'plot' to get something 'ex' (out of) a situation or person.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old French 'esploit', meaning 'action', 'revenue', or 'profit'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In modern Western society, 'exploitation' is a key term in discussions regarding ethics, fair trade, and workers' rights.
Quick Quiz
The company was accused of trying to ______ its workers by making them work long hours for very low pay.
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Related Vocabulary
More society words
infrastructure
B2Infrastructure refers to the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities, such as buildings, roads, power supplies, and internet networks, needed for the operation of a society or enterprise. It acts as the underlying foundation that allows a city or company to function efficiently.
public
A2Public refers to things that are provided for the use of all people or belong to the community rather than a private person. It also describes information or events that are not secret and can be seen or known by anyone.
legitimate
B2Describes something that is allowed by law or follows established rules and regulations. It can also refer to something that is reasonable, valid, or justifiable in a particular context.
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