Exploit - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An exploit is a clever or skillful action used to gain an advantage, often in a challenging situation. It can also refer to unfairly using someone or something for personal benefit.
Definition:
To use someone or something unfairly for personal gain, or to utilize resources effectively.
Synonyms:
utilize, manipulate, capitalize on, leverage
Part of Speech:
verb, noun
Antonyms:
neglect, waste
Common Collocations:
exploit resources, exploit opportunities, exploit workers
Derivatives:
exploiter, exploitation, exploitative
Usage Tips:
Use "exploit" carefully; it can imply unfair use (negative) or effective use (positive) depending on context.
Common Phrases:
exploit a loophole, exploit one's potential, exploit the situation
Etymology:
From Old French "exploit," meaning "achievement," from Latin "explicare" (to unfold or accomplish).
Examples:
- 1. The company was accused of trying to exploit its workers for higher profits.
- 2. She managed to exploit her opponent's weakness during the debate.
- 3. The software has a bug that hackers could exploit.
- 4. Farmers must exploit the land wisely to ensure sustainability.
- 5. He wrote a book on how to exploit market trends successfully.