The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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exploit

verb

/ˈɛkˌsplɔɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of exploit

To take advantage of something or someone for one's own benefit.
"The athlete was accused of trying to exploit his opponent's injury during the game."

Detailed meaning of exploit

For example, in the business world, a company might exploit a market opportunity by creating a new product or service that meets a previously unmet need. Similarly, individuals might exploit a weakness in a system or organization for personal gain. However, the term can also carry negative connotations, as when it is used to describe the mistreatment or abuse of people or resources for profit. In such cases, the act of exploitation is often seen as unethical or immoral. Overall, the verb 'exploit' implies a deliberate and strategic approach to leveraging opportunities or vulnerabilities in order to achieve a desired outcome.

Example sentences containing exploit

1. The company sought to exploit new market opportunities.
2. He was determined to exploit his opponent's weaknesses in the game.
3. The film aimed to exploit the audience's emotions and create a memorable experience.
4. The company was accused of trying to exploit laborers by paying them below minimum wage.
5. They decided to exploit the natural resources found in the region for economic gain.
6. The hackers attempted to exploit a vulnerability in the system to gain unauthorized access.

History and etymology of exploit

The verb 'exploit' has its etymology in the Latin word 'explitare,' which is derived from 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'pliare' meaning 'to fold' or 'to bend.' Originally, 'explitare' referred to the act of unfolding or spreading something, but over time, it came to signify the idea of taking full advantage of a situation or resource. This etymological origin highlights the concept of 'exploit' as the act of bending or utilizing something to one's advantage, often with a connotation of taking advantage in a way that may not always be ethical or fair. The prefix 'ex-' suggests an outward or intensive action, and 'pliare' implies a manipulation or utilization, reflecting how the word 'exploit' has evolved to convey the idea of taking advantage for personal gain, rooted in its Latin roots where the focus was on the manipulation or utilization of resources.

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Further usage examples of exploit

1. The politician was criticized for attempting to exploit the fears of the public for personal gain.
2. The fashion industry often exploits young models by subjecting them to harsh working conditions.
3. The company devised a marketing strategy to exploit the latest trends and attract customers.
4. He used his charm and wit to exploit every opportunity that came his way.
5. The newspaper article aimed to exploit the scandal and attract more readers.
6. The company implemented innovative techniques to exploit the full potential of their products.
7. The team analyzed the opponent's strategy to exploit any weaknesses they could find.
8. The author's book sought to exploit the reader's curiosity and keep them engaged till the end.
9. The company's advertising campaign aimed to exploit the desires and aspirations of consumers.
10. The unethical company tried to exploit loopholes in the tax laws to avoid paying their fair share.
11. The artist's work was intended to exploit the interplay of light and shadow for a dramatic effect.
12. The criminal gang sought to exploit the vulnerable members of society for their own gain.
13. The coach trained the athletes to exploit their natural talents and maximize their performance.
14. The entrepreneur saw an opportunity to exploit the emerging market trends and launch a successful business.