exploit

[ikˈsplɔɪt]

exploit Definition

• 1. to use or develop something for profit or progress in an unfair or unethical way
• 2. to make use of a situation or treat someone unfairly in order to gain an advantage or benefit
• 3. a 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
• misuse
• take advantage of
• manipulate
• 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'

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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.'