exploit Definition
- 1to use or develop something for profit or progress in an unfair or unethical way
- 2to make use of a situation or treat someone unfairly in order to gain an advantage or benefit
- 3a bold or daring feat
Using exploit: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "exploit" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company was accused of exploiting its workers.
Example
He exploited his father's connections to get the job.
Example
She was able to exploit her opponent's weakness and win the game.
Example
The spy's mission was to exploit the enemy's weaknesses and gather information.
exploit Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for exploit
- abuse
- take advantage of
- manipulate
- misuse
- capitalize on
Antonyms for exploit
- neglect
- ignore
- underuse
Idioms Using exploit
make the most of something
to take full advantage of an opportunity or situation
Example
She decided to make the most of her vacation by traveling to different countries.
strike while the iron is hot
to take advantage of an opportunity while it is still available
Example
The entrepreneur decided to strike while the iron was hot and launch his new product.
play into someone's hands
to do something that helps someone else achieve their goals
Example
The politician's controversial remarks played into his opponent's hands and helped him win the election.
Phrases with exploit
exploit someone's vulnerability
to take advantage of someone's weakness or susceptibility
Example
The scammer exploited the elderly woman's vulnerability and stole her life savings.
exploit a loophole
to take advantage of a technicality or ambiguity in a law or system
Example
The wealthy businessman exploited a tax loophole to avoid paying millions of dollars in taxes.
exploit natural resources
to use natural resources for economic gain
Example
The government allowed foreign companies to exploit the country's oil reserves.
Origins of exploit
from Old French 'esploit', meaning 'a deed, action, military operation'
Summary: exploit in Brief
The verb 'exploit' [ikˈsplɔɪt] refers to the unfair or unethical use of something or someone for profit or progress. It can also mean taking advantage of a situation or treating someone unfairly to gain an advantage. 'Exploit' can be used in phrases like 'exploit a loophole' or 'exploit natural resources,' and idioms like 'make the most of something.'
