Exploitation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ผ
exploitation
[หษk.sploษชหteษช.สษn ]
Definitions
social
The action or fact of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work. Exploitation often involves taking advantage of a power dynamic to exploit the labor or resources of others for personal gain.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| exploitation |
When talking about taking unfair advantage of someone or something, especially in terms of labor or resources.
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| misuse |
When talking about using something inappropriately or incorrectly, usually leading to harm or inefficiency.
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| abuse |
When referring to cruel or violent treatment, often in a physical or emotional context. This word carries a very strong negative connotation.
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| manipulation |
When describing situations where someone is trying to control or influence others in a deceptive or unfair manner. This can also apply to data or objects.
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Examples of usage
- The exploitation of workers in sweatshops is a major issue in many developing countries.
- Child labor is a form of exploitation that must be eradicated worldwide.
- She felt exploited by her boss who made her work long hours without proper compensation.
economic
The act of using someone or something in an unfair or selfish way to gain an advantage or profit. Economic exploitation often refers to the unfair treatment of workers in terms of wages, working conditions, or benefits.
Synonyms
oppression, subjugation, utilization.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| exploitation |
Use this word when talking about unfair treatment and taking advantage of someone or something, often for personal gain.
|
| utilization |
This is a neutral term used to describe the act of making practical use of something, often resources or data.
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| oppression |
This word is appropriate when discussing the cruel or unjust treatment of people, typically by those in power.
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| subjugation |
Use this word to describe the act of bringing someone or something under control, often by force.
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Examples of usage
- The company was accused of exploitation for paying its employees below minimum wage.
- Exploitation of natural resources without considering environmental impact is unsustainable.
- Many multinational corporations engage in exploitation of labor in developing countries.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'exploitation' comes from the Latin word 'exploitatio', meaning 'to travel through'. Over time, it evolved to mean 'to make use of' in a more negative sense.
- In the early 20th century, labor movements began to use the term as workers fought against unfair practices by businesses.
- The concept gained prominence during the Industrial Revolution, illustrating how workers were often paid little while factories profited greatly.
Economics
- Exploitation can occur in capitalism when employers pay low wages while businesses maximize profits from their labor.
- In economic terms, market exploitation refers to situations where one party takes advantage of lack of competition to hike prices or reduce quality.
- Some economists study exploitation to understand wealth disparities in society, focusing on how resources are distributed.
Social Justice
- Exploitation is often seen in discussions about social justice, particularly regarding marginalized groups and how they may be taken advantage of.
- The exploitation of natural resources often leads to environmental degradation, impacting communities and wildlife.
- Activists work to raise awareness about exploitation in industries like fashion, where workers in developing countries may endure poor conditions.
Psychology
- Feeling exploited can lead to resentment and a breakdown in trust in relationships, whether personal or professional.
- Research in psychology shows that people who feel exploited may experience anxiety or depression as a result of perceived unfair treatment.
- The power dynamics in exploitative relationships can create situations of dependency, where the exploited feel trapped.
Literature
- Many novels critique exploitation, such as 'The Grapes of Wrath' by John Steinbeck, showcasing the struggles of migrant workers in America.
- Plays and poetry often explore themes of exploitation, presenting characters who confront or resist being used for others' gain.
- In dystopian fiction, exploitation is a common theme, illustrating the consequences of a society where the powerful misuse the weak.
Origin of 'exploitation'
The word 'exploitation' originated from the Latin word 'exploitare', which means 'to utilize'. The term gained negative connotations over time, particularly in the context of unfair treatment or abuse for personal gain. Exploitation has been a prevalent issue throughout history, often associated with labor practices, colonialism, and economic inequality.
See also: exploit, exploitable, exploited, exploiter, exploiters, exploiting, exploits, underexploit, underexploitation.