B2verb2K

UK/["/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪts/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪtɪd/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪtɪŋ/"]/US/["/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪts/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪtɪd/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪtɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Exploit

to treat a person or situation as an opportunity to gain an advantage for yourself

In simple words: To use something or someone unfairly for your own benefit.

Exploit in a sentence

  • The company decided to exploit the new technology to gain a competitive edge.
  • He felt it was wrong to exploit workers for profit.
  • The athlete's unique skills were exploited by his coach to improve his performance.
  • Some people exploit the system to receive benefits they do not deserve.
  • She learned how to exploit her strengths during the interview.
  • Hacking is often seen as a way to exploit vulnerabilities in software.

How to use Exploit

Use 'exploit' when discussing taking advantage of resources, opportunities, or people. It is often used in business or ethical contexts, but can sound negative. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

exploit + object

Memory hint

Think of 'exploit' as 'ex' and 'ploit' — 'ex' means out and 'ploit' sounds like 'ploy', as in a sneaky trick.

Related words

Collocations with Exploit

  • mercilessly
  • ruthlessly
  • cynically
  • mercilessly
  • ruthlessly
  • cynically
  • extensively
  • heavily
  • fully
  • be determined to
  • be keen to
  • hope to

Synonyms for Exploit

  • utilize
  • take advantage of
  • misuse
  • exploitative
  • capitalise on

Opposites of Exploit

Common mistakes with Exploit

  • Confused with 'explore' — 'exploit' means to take advantage, while 'explore' means to investigate.
  • Using in passive voice incorrectly — 'to be exploited' should refer to being taken advantage of.
  • Mixing up 'exploit' with 'exploitative' — while related, they have different uses.

Exploit appears in

Exploit in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Exploit

What does Exploit mean?

To use something or someone unfairly for your own benefit.

What is the definition of Exploit?

to treat a person or situation as an opportunity to gain an advantage for yourself

How do you use Exploit in a sentence?

The company decided to exploit the new technology to gain a competitive edge.

Can you give another example of Exploit?

He felt it was wrong to exploit workers for profit.

What are synonyms for Exploit?

Common alternatives include utilize, take advantage of, misuse, exploitative, capitalise on.

What is the opposite of Exploit?

Opposite meanings include support, protect, help.

What words go with Exploit?

It commonly pairs with mercilessly, ruthlessly, cynically, mercilessly, ruthlessly, cynically, extensively, heavily, fully, be determined to, be keen to, hope to.

What are common mistakes when using Exploit?

Confused with 'explore' — 'exploit' means to take advantage, while 'explore' means to investigate. Using in passive voice incorrectly — 'to be exploited' should refer to being taken advantage of. Mixing up 'exploit' with 'exploitative' — while related, they have different uses.

How do you pronounce Exploit?

US: /["/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪts/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪtɪd/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪtɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪts/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪtɪd/","/ɪkˈsplɔɪtɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Exploit?

Use 'exploit' when discussing taking advantage of resources, opportunities, or people. It is often used in business or ethical contexts, but can sound negative. Avoid in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Exploit?

"Exploit" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.