Synonyms for

Exploiting

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

Definition

Taking advantage of someone or something in an unfair or selfish way.

Synonyms & similar words

work exploit overwork tap manipulating using abusing misusing leveraging milking cheating bullying intimidating dominating enslaving

Synonyms by register

Formal

leveraging utilizing capitalizing on taking advantage of

Informal

using milking working cashing in on

Literary

preying upon drawing from

Antonyms

benefiting aiding assisting supporting helping nurturing developing

Common collocations

  • exploiting resources
  • exploiting a loophole
  • exploiting workers
  • exploiting a situation
  • exploiting vulnerabilities
  • exploiting the system
  • exploiting opportunities

Word family

noun exploitation
verb exploit
adjective exploitative

Usage note

Often carries a negative connotation, implying unfair or unethical use of something or someone. Be mindful of the context to avoid unintended negative implications.

Example sentences

  1. The company was exploiting the environment by dumping waste into the river.
  2. He was exploiting his friend's kindness by always asking for money.
  3. The politician was accused of exploiting the fears of the public to gain votes.
  4. The teacher warned the students not to exploit the new substitute teacher's inexperience.
  5. The company was exploiting a loophole in the tax code to avoid paying taxes.

Quotes

  • The powerful exploit the powerless, and then blame them for being weak. - Paulo Freire
  • The people who are exploiting the world will never stop until they can't. - Pete Seeger
  • In a capitalist society, persons who create capital are the exploiters and persons who only own capital are the exploited. - Upton Sinclair

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