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Word

exploitation

noun C1
/ˌɛksplɔɪˈteɪʃn̩/

Meanings

noun

the unfair use of someone’s work, vulnerability, or position for personal or organizational benefit

exploitation: the unfair use of someone’s work, vulnerability, or position for personal or organizational benefit
noun

the intensive use of natural resources or land for profit, often causing environmental damage

exploitation: the intensive use of natural resources or land for profit, often causing environmental damage
noun

the act of taking advantage of a situation or event to gain publicity or benefit, especially in an unethical way

exploitation: the act of taking advantage of a situation or event to gain publicity or benefit, especially in an unethical w…

Definition

Exploitation is the act of using someone or something unfairly for your own advantage.

Exploitation means taking advantage of a person, group, or resource in a way that is unfair or harmful. It often involves an imbalance of power, where one side benefits while the other is pressured, underpaid, or deprived of rights. The word can also describe using a situation or opportunity purely for personal gain, even if it is unethical.

Examples

  • The report documents exploitation of migrant workers through withheld wages and threats of dismissal.
  • She challenged the exploitation she saw in the supply chain, arguing that low prices should not rely on unsafe conditions.
  • They accused the platform of exploitation because it shifted risks onto contractors while controlling their schedules.
  • I felt uneasy about the exploitation of the disaster for publicity, even though the campaign looked polished.
  • You can spot exploitation when consent is coerced and the benefits flow overwhelmingly in one direction.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse exploitation with exploration, but exploitation means unfair use for gain, whereas exploration means investigating or traveling to discover.

More at C1 level

More nouns