exploits

exploits — verb

IPA/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/
KK[ˈɛksplˌɔɪts]IPA/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/
  • exploitspresent simple I / you / we / they
  • exploitses3rd person singular
  • exploitsing-ing form
  • exploitsedpast simple

1. to get the best possible result from a resource, skill, or opportunity by puttin

1.動詞及物B1
釋義

to get the best possible result from a resource, skill, or opportunity by putting it to practical use. For example, a farm might fit solar panels to generate its own electricity, or a coach might place a fast runner in a position where speed matters most.

例句

The farm exploits solar energy to power its irrigation system during the dry season.

exploit + natural resource as object

The coach exploited Caleb's speed by putting him on the right wing.

exploit + personal attribute as object

同義詞
  • utilize

    more formal; suggests practical use of a tool or material

  • harness

    suggests capturing a natural force or energy to make it useful

  • capitalize on

    emphasises taking advantage of a situation or trend

  • make the most of

    more informal; stresses getting the best result from limited resources

反義詞
  • waste

    to use something carelessly without getting full benefit

  • squander

    to waste something valuable, especially money or an opportunity

  • underuse

    to use something less than its full potential

文法句型

exploit + noun phrase (resource / opportunity / skill)

用法筆記

Object is typically a resource (energy, data), a skill or attribute (speed, talent), or an opportunity. Unlike sense verb/2 (TAKE ADVANTAGE), this sense carries a neutral or positive connotation and does not take a personal object.

常見錯誤

❌The company exploited its workers to increase profits.' (when meaning 'used resources well')
✅The company exploited its natural resources to increase profits.
💡The neutral sense of 'exploit' takes resources or opportunities as its object, not people.
❌He exploited from the opportunity.
✅He exploited the opportunity.
💡'Exploit' is a transitive verb and must be followed directly by its object, not by a preposition.

2. to treat a person or a situation in a selfish, unfair way in order to gain money

2.動詞及物B2
釋義

to treat a person or a situation in a selfish, unfair way in order to gain money, power, or some other benefit for yourself. For instance, a company might pay very low wages to workers who have no other job options, or a business might find a legal loophole and use it to avoid paying taxes.

例句

Some landlords exploit immigrant workers by charging them unfairly high rent.

exploit + vulnerable group as object

The local tabloid exploited the train accident to sell more newspapers.

exploit + event as object

同義詞
  • take advantage of

    slightly less harsh; can be used in neutral or negative contexts

  • abuse

    stronger connotation of mistreatment or improper use

  • manipulate

    suggests controlling someone through clever or dishonest means

反義詞
  • respect

    to treat someone with fairness and consideration

  • protect

    to keep someone safe from harm or unfair treatment

  • support

    to help someone in a positive, selfless way

文法句型

exploit + noun phrase (person / group / situation)

用法筆記

Object is often a person, a group of people, or a vulnerable situation. Frequently appears in discussions of labour rights, power imbalances, and unethical business practices. Subject is usually a person or organisation with more power than the object.

常見錯誤

❌The manager exploited from his employees.
✅The manager exploited his employees.
💡'Exploit' takes a direct object; no preposition is needed.
❌He exploited the natural resources.' (when meaning 'unfair treatment of people')
✅He exploited the natural resources.' (neutral sense) vs. 'He exploited his workers.' (negative sense)
💡The object of the sentence tells you which meaning is intended; using a person as the object signals the negative sense.

exploits — noun

IPA/ˈek.splɔɪt/
KK[ˈɛksplˌɔɪts]IPA/ˈek.splɔɪt/