What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exploit
Example
The company was able to exploit new technologies to increase profits. [exploit: verb]
Example
She was able to exploit her skills to get the job done quickly. [exploit: verb]
abuse
Example
He was arrested for abusing his wife. [abusing: gerund or present participle]
Example
The athlete was accused of abusing performance-enhancing drugs. [abusing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abuse is more commonly used than exploit in everyday language. Abuse is a strong word that is often used to describe harmful behavior, while exploit is less common and has a more neutral or positive connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between exploit and abuse?
Both exploit and abuse can be used in formal and informal contexts, but abuse is typically associated with a more serious and formal tone due to its negative connotation.
