1
Use a resource
Make productive or strategic use of an available material, condition, or opportunity.
Example
The device exploits small temperature differences to generate electricity.
exploit
/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/ · ik-SPLOYTverb
To take advantage of a resource, opportunity, weakness, or person.
Use exploit neutrally for making effective use of something and negatively for taking unfair advantage of people or vulnerabilities.
What exploit Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Use a weakness
Gain an advantage by recognising and acting on a vulnerability in a system or argument.
Example
The attack exploited a weakness in the network's security.
3
Take unfair advantage
Benefit from people who lack power, protection, or alternatives.
Example
The company was criticized for exploiting workers with few alternatives.
Use exploit Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The company was criticized for exploiting workers with few alternatives.
The new process exploits waste heat that would otherwise escape.
Misleading advertisements can exploit consumers' uncertainty.
Precision Matters
Exploit overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
exploit
vs.Often stresses gaining maximum benefit or advantage.
use
Is the broad neutral verb for employing something.
exploit
vs.May be neutral or morally critical depending on the object.
harness
Usually positively channels a force or resource for a purpose.
exploit
vs.Can simply use a resource effectively.
manipulate
Often controls a person or situation unfairly or skilfully handles an object.
exploit
vs.May describe legitimate strategic use.
abuse
Always implies improper, harmful, or excessive treatment.
Test exploit in Context
The device takes strategic advantage of an available condition.
1
By converting small temperature differences between surface and deep water into electrical energy, the device can ___ a resource that was previously unused.