Synonyms for

Exploitation

Verb / ˌeˌksplɔɪˈteɪʃʌn / Another word for exploitation — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The action or fact of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work.

Synonyms & similar words

using development victimisation victimization abuse mistreatment manipulation oppression ill-treatment subjugation enslavement domination coercion intimidation bullying harassment discrimination prejudice bias favoritism unjustness inequity inequality

Synonyms by register

Formal

abuse misuse taking advantage profiteering

Informal

ripping off using taking advantage of cheating

Literary

ravishment despoliation

Antonyms

fairness benevolence support care protection empowerment justice

Common collocations

  • economic exploitation
  • worker exploitation
  • sexual exploitation
  • child exploitation
  • prevent exploitation
  • stop exploitation
  • exploitation of resources
  • exploitation of labor

Word family

noun exploitation
verb exploit
adjective exploitative

Usage note

Exploitation often carries a strong negative connotation, implying unfair or unethical treatment for personal gain. It can refer to the use of people, resources, or situations for one's own benefit, often at the expense of others.

Example sentences

  1. The company was accused of exploitation when it was discovered that they paid their workers very low wages.
  2. Child exploitation is a serious crime and should never be tolerated.
  3. The exploitation of natural resources can have a negative impact on the environment.
  4. The government promised to crack down on the exploitation of migrant workers.
  5. The exploitation of animals for entertainment is unethical and cruel.

Quotes

  • Exploitation is the antithesis of art. It is the result of society scratching the surface of things.
  • The exploitation of the earth by a few greedy people is causing the greatest crisis humanity has ever faced.
  • Exploitation of others is not a fundamental part of human nature. It is a learned behavior.

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