exploit
verb [ T ]
uk/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/ usto use or develop something for profit or progress in business:
exploit resources/technology/information We need to make sure that we exploit our resources as fully as possible.
exploit opportunities/potential
This collection of valuable sound recordings has never been commercially exploited.
disapproving
to treat someone unfairly in order to make money or get an advantage:
Laws exist to stop companies exploiting their employees.
These unfortunate people have been ruthlessly exploited.
often disapproving
to use something, often unfairly, for your own advantage:
exploit a loophole/weakness/vulnerability These are responsible employers who are not seeking to exploit loopholes in the legislation.
People exploit the system by lodging multiple appeals.
exploitable
adjective uk/ɪkˈsplɔɪtəbl̩/ us/-ṱə-/
The coal mine is no longer commercially exploitable.