Advantage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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advantage

[ษ™dหˆvษ‘หntษชdส’ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in sports

A condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable or superior position.

Synonyms

benefit, edge, upper hand.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
advantage

Used to describe a favorable condition or situation that helps someone or something succeed. Often used in competitive contexts.

  • The city's central location gives it a clear advantage in terms of trade
  • Having a degree from a prestigious university can be a significant advantage when job hunting
benefit

Refers to something that promotes well-being or is helpful. Often used in health, personal growth, or financial situations.

  • A balanced diet has many health benefits
  • The new training program offers several benefits for employees
edge

Implies a slight but significant lead over competitors or in a situation. Often used in technology, business, or sports contexts.

  • Our new software gives us an edge over the competition
  • Being bilingual gives you an edge in the job market
upper hand

Conveys dominance or control over a situation or person. Often used in negotiations, arguments, or conflicts.

  • In the debate, she quickly gained the upper hand
  • With their superior resources, they have the upper hand in the market

Examples of usage

  • He had the advantage of youth on his side.
  • The home team has a slight advantage going into the final quarter.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A benefit gained from a situation.

Synonyms

asset, benefit, gain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
advantage

Utilize this word when referring to a condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable or superior position.

  • Having a strong network can be a significant advantage in the job market.
  • His bilingual skills give him an advantage in international business.
benefit

Employ this word when talking about something positive or good that one receives from a situation or action.

  • One benefit of the new policy is that employees can work remotely.
  • Regular exercise has many health benefits.
gain

This word is generally used to describe something acquired or achieved, often after effort or struggle. It can also have a negative connotation if used in the context of unfair or unethical means.

  • He saw significant financial gains after investing in stocks.
  • She works hard for every gain in her career.
asset

This word is best used when describing a valuable resource or skill that someone has. It often has a positive connotation.

  • Her creativity is a major asset for this company.
  • Being detail-oriented is an asset in accounting.

Examples of usage

  • She took advantage of the opportunity to learn a new skill.
  • His experience was an advantage in the job interview.
Context #3 | Verb

general

To use or make good use of an opportunity.

Synonyms

benefit from, capitalize on, make the most of.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
advantage

Refers to a condition or circumstance that puts someone in a favorable or superior position. Often used in general contexts to discuss benefits or favorable situations.

  • Having a higher education can give you an advantage in the job market.
  • One of the advantages of working from home is the flexible schedule.
benefit from

Indicates receiving a positive effect or improvement from a particular situation or action. Commonly used when talking about outcomes or results.

  • Employees can benefit from on-the-job training.
  • Children benefit from having supportive parents.
capitalize on

Implies using a situation or opportunity to one's own advantage, often in a strategic manner. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation if the action seems overly opportunistic.

  • The company managed to capitalize on the rising demand for eco-friendly products.
  • She capitalized on her popularity to launch a new business.
make the most of

Refers to using something as effectively as possible, maximizing the benefits or advantages of a situation. Usually has a motivational or proactive connotation.

  • You should make the most of your time in college by taking advantage of all the resources available.
  • He made the most of the good weather by going for a long hike.

Examples of usage

  • She always tries to advantage herself in any situation.
  • He was able to advantage his opponent's weakness.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Business

  • In business, having an advantage can mean having better resources or skills than your competitors.
  • Companies often analyze their market for competitive advantages that set them apart.

Psychology

  • People often seek advantages in social situations, aiming to strengthen their relationships and networks.
  • The concept of perceived advantage in decision-making can influence how people approach risks and choices.

Sports

  • In sports, having an advantage can refer to better conditions, like playing at home instead of away.
  • Athletes train to gain advantages over their opponents, whether through skills or strategies.

Education

  • Students often look for academic advantages like tutoring or extra study resources to perform better.
  • In a classroom, a supportive teacher can give students an advantage in understanding difficult subjects.

Origin of 'advantage'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'avantage,' meaning benefit or profit.
  • Its roots can be traced back to Latin 'advantagium,' which means to be worth more or to be advantageous.

The word 'advantage' originated in Middle English from Old French 'avantage', based on Latin 'ad-' meaning towards and 'vante' meaning wind. The term initially referred to the position of soldiers in battle, giving them a superior position. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent any favorable or superior condition or benefit gained from a situation.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,120, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.