What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leverage
Example
We can leverage our social media presence to increase brand awareness. [leverage: verb]
Example
The company's financial leverage allowed them to expand their operations. [leverage: noun]
exploit
Example
He was accused of exploiting his employees by paying them below minimum wage. [exploiting: verb]
Example
The company's exploitation of natural resources led to environmental degradation. [exploitation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leverage is more commonly used than exploit in business and finance contexts, while exploit is used in a wider range of contexts. However, both words are less common in everyday language and may be more difficult for ESL learners to understand.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between leverage and exploit?
Leverage is generally considered more formal than exploit, which has a negative connotation and may be seen as informal or even offensive in some contexts.
