Exploit

Definition

Exploit can refer to making full use of and deriving benefit from a resource, or it can mean a bold or daring feat.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

As a Noun:

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛksplɔɪt/
• Respelling: EK-sploit (with "EK" as in "echo" and "sploit" as in "toy")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛksplɔɪt/
• Respelling: EK-sploit (with "EK" as in "echo" and "sploit" as in "toy")

As a Verb:

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈsplɔɪt/
• Respelling: ik-Sploit (with "ik" as in "ink" and "sploit" as in "toy")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈsplɔɪt/
• Respelling: ik-Sploit (with "ik" as in "ink" and "sploit" as in "toy")

In both dialects, when "exploit" is used as a noun, the primary stress is on the first syllable, "EK." When used as a verb, the stress shifts to the second syllable, "Sploit." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "exploit" originates from the Old French word exploiter, which in turn comes from the Latin explicare, meaning "to unfold" or "to develop." The noun form has been used since the 15th century to refer to a notable achievement or deed, while the verb form has been in use since the 14th century, initially meaning "to accomplish" or "to achieve."

Derivatives

• Exploitation (noun)
• Exploiter (noun)
• Exploitable (adjective)
• Exploitative (adjective)
• Exploited (adjective)

Synonyms

• Utilize (verb)
• Harness (verb)
• Feat (noun)

Antonyms

• Neglect (verb)
• Ignore (verb)
• Failure (noun)

Usage

"Exploit" is a versatile word used in various contexts. As a noun, it is often associated with notable accomplishments or heroic deeds, while as a verb, it typically carries a negative connotation, referring to the unfair or unethical use of resources, people, or opportunities.

Related Terms

• Resource: A supply of materials or assets to be drawn upon.
• Advantage: A condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable position.
• Opportunism: The practice of seeking personal gain at the expense of others.

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Utilization of Resources or People: Refers to taking advantage of resources, opportunities, or people, often in a way that is selfish or unethical.
  • Example: The company was criticized for exploiting workers by paying them low wages.

• To Make Full Use of: Refers to using a situation or resource effectively to gain an advantage.
  • Example: The team exploited the opponent's weakness to win the game.

Noun

• Notable Achievement: Refers to a remarkable or heroic action that is often celebrated for its courage or ingenuity.
  
  • Example: The exploits of the explorer were chronicled in a series of books.