Cool MateExploitation
UK /["/ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃn/"]/
Definition
a situation in which somebody treats somebody else in an unfair way, especially in order to make money from their work
In simple words: Using someone or something unfairly for your own benefit.
Examples
- the exploitation of children
- Starvation and poverty are the result of global economic exploitation, not lack of resources.
- Migrant workers are vulnerable to exploitation.
- The party's avowed aim was to struggle against capitalist exploitation.
- societies based on the exploitation of enslaved people
- commercial exploitation of the mineral resources in Antarctica
- Turtles are increasingly threatened by human exploitation.
- the direct exploitation of natural forests
- exploitation of the situation for his own purposes
- her ruthless exploitation of popular fear
Usage notes
Used mainly to discuss unfair treatment or use of resources. Often found in academic or political contexts. Less appropriate in casual conversations.
Grammar pattern
exploitation + of + object
Memory hint
Think of 'exploit' as to unfairly use; like a pirate exploiting treasure.
Collocations
- brutal
- ruthless
- cynical
- prevent
- struggle against
- be open to
- effective
- efficient
- full
- be ripe for
- effective
- efficient
- full
- be ripe for
Synonyms
- abuse
- utilization
- misuse
- manipulation
- oppression
Antonyms
- fairness
- equity
Common mistakes
- Confusing with 'exploration', which means to examine or travel through an area.
- Using 'exploit' incorrectly as a noun instead of a verb.
- Mixing up 'exploitation' with 'exploitation rights' which have a specific legal meaning.