Exploiting: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in a negative sense to indicate taking unfair advantage of someone or something for personal gain.

• The company was accused of exploiting its workers by paying them very low wages.
• These scammers are exploiting vulnerable people.

Used in a neutral or positive context to describe using something in an effective or practical way.

• We need to utilize all available resources to solve this problem.
• The team utilized the new software to improve productivity.

Used in a negative context to describe the cruel or violent treatment of someone or something. It can also refer to improper use of something.

• She was a victim of verbal and physical abuse.
• The manager was fired for abusing his power.

Usually has a negative connotation, referring to controlling or influencing someone or something in a clever or unscrupulous way.

• He tried to manipulate the results of the experiment.
• She was skilled at manipulating people to get what she wanted.

Generally used in a neutral or positive sense to describe taking advantage of a situation or opportunity.

• They capitalized on the market trends to increase their profits.
• We should capitalize on this unique opportunity.

This word is often used in a negative context, implying an unfair or unethical use of resources or people for one's own benefit.

• He was accused of exploiting his workers by paying them very low wages.
• The company is exploiting the natural resources without regard for the environment.

Typically used in a neutral or positive sense, referring to the effective use of a tool, resource, or method for a specific purpose.

• The new software allows us to utilize our data more efficiently.
• We should utilize all available resources to tackle this issue.

Indicating the act of maximizing the benefit or potential of a situation, usually in a positive or encouraging manner.

• Despite the rain, we made the most of our trip.
• She made the most of her time at the conference by networking with industry leaders.

Used to describe effectively using a resource, technology, or energy to achieve a goal, often in a positive or neutral sense.

• We need to harness renewable energy sources.
• The team harnessed their skills to complete the project successfully.

Can have both positive and negative connotations. Positively, it means to use something to your benefit; negatively, it can mean using someone unfairly or unethically.

• She took advantage of the job opportunity to advance her career.
• He took advantage of her kindness and borrowed money without returning it.