exploit

exploit — verb

1. to make full use of a resource, opportunity, or skill so that you get the greate

1.動詞及物B2
釋義

to make full use of a resource, opportunity, or skill so that you get the greatest possible benefit from it

例句

Iris exploited her knowledge of Japanese to negotiate a better deal with the Osaka supplier.

exploit + knowledge/skill for a practical purpose

The local farmers exploited the rich volcanic soil to grow high-quality coffee beans.

同義詞
  • utilize

    more formal, neutral in connotation; 'utilize' lacks the 'get maximum benefit' sense

  • make the most of

    phrasal equivalent, common in spoken English

  • harness

    suggests controlling a natural force or energy source

  • capitalize on

    specifically about turning an opportunity to your advantage

反義詞
  • waste

    opposite goal — fail to benefit from a resource or opportunity

  • squander

    stronger than waste; suggests carelessly losing an opportunity

文法句型

exploit + [resource/opportunity/skill]

exploit [noun] to [verb]

用法筆記

The object is typically an inanimate thing such as a resource, technology, opportunity, or skill. Using this sense with a person as the object would shift the meaning to the negative sense (verb/2, TAKE ADVANTAGE).

常見錯誤

❌I exploited my dictionary to learn new words.
✅I used my dictionary to learn new words.
💡'exploit' sounds too strong for routine tool use; the word implies a strategic or large-scale benefit.
❌She exploited the bathroom quickly before the guests arrived.
✅She used the bathroom quickly before the guests arrived.
💡'exploit' does not mean ordinary everyday use.

2. to selfishly use a person or a difficult situation for your own gain, in a way t

2.動詞及物B2
釋義

to selfishly use a person or a difficult situation for your own gain, in a way that is morally wrong or causes harm to others

例句

The construction company exploited undocumented workers by paying them cash without any benefits.

exploit + [group] by [unfair practice]

Apinya felt that her flatmate was exploiting her kindness by never doing the dishes.

同義詞
  • take advantage of

    softer, more common in everyday speech; can also be neutral/positive

  • abuse

    stronger, suggests mistreatment through harmful actions rather than selfish use

  • use

    simpler but much weaker; lacks the connotation of unfairness

  • manipulate

    implies psychological control or deception, not just unfair use

反義詞
  • protect

    opposite action — safeguard vulnerable people instead of using them

  • support

    provide help or resources rather than take from someone

文法句型

exploit + [person/group]

exploit + [situation/weakness]

be exploited by [someone]

用法筆記

This sense carries a strong negative moral judgement. It is common in discussions of labour rights, scams, systemic injustice, and unethical business practices. Frequently used in the passive voice (e.g. 'workers were exploited' or 'children are being exploited'). The object is usually a vulnerable group, a personal quality (kindness, trust), or a crisis that the exploiter takes advantage of.

常見錯誤

❌The company exploited the new software to improve efficiency.
✅The company used the new software to improve efficiency.
💡objects that are tools or resources belong to verb/1 (MAKE GOOD USE); using verb/2 for tools wrongly implies unethical behaviour.
❌My boss exploits me by giving me interesting projects.
✅My boss gives me interesting projects.
💡'exploit' is only appropriate when the treatment is unfair or harmful, not simply when someone asks you to work.

exploit — noun