Profiteer: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is typically used to refer to someone who makes unfair profits, especially during times of crisis or scarcity. It carries a negative connotation, implying unethical behavior.

• During the war, several businesses were accused of being profiteers, selling essential goods at inflated prices.

An opportunist is someone who takes advantage of opportunities as they arise, often without considering the consequences for others. It has a more neutral connotation and can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

• As an opportunist, she was always ready to seize any chance to climb the corporate ladder.

An exploiter is someone who takes advantage of others for selfish gain, often in a manipulative or unfair manner. This word is commonly used in social and economic contexts and has a strong negative connotation.

• He was labeled an exploiter for paying his workers extremely low wages while making huge profits.

This word describes someone who does something purely for personal gain, particularly money, without regard for ethics or loyalty. It is often used in a military context to describe soldiers for hire but can be used more broadly.

• The politician was accused of being a mercenary, changing his stance on issues based on who paid him the most.

Used to describe someone who makes excessive profits, usually in a way that is considered unfair or unethical. Often seen in critical or negative contexts.

• During the crisis, some companies were accused of being profiteers by raising prices on essential goods.
• He's nothing more than a war profiteer, selling supplies at highly inflated prices.

Used when someone is taking unfair advantage of a situation or people, often implying some form of manipulation or harm. Typically has a negative connotation.

• The company was criticized for exploiting its workers with poor wages and long hours.
• He exploited the loopholes in the law to avoid paying taxes.

Often used in business to describe taking advantage of an opportunity or situation to gain a benefit or profit.

• She managed to capitalize on the growing trend of eco-friendly products.
• By investing early in the tech startup, he was able to capitalize on its success.

Commonly used in the context of converting something into money or revenue, especially digital or online content.

• She found a way to monetize her blog through ads and sponsored posts.
• The platform aims to monetize user data by selling targeted ads.