exploit
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for exploit, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A bold or notable achievement, especially a daring one.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use exploit
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French esploit, "achievement, profit," related to Latin explicare ("to unfold, accomplish").
Full origin of exploit →Frequently asked questions
What does “exploit” mean?
The word “exploit” means a bold or notable achievement, especially a daring one. In plain terms, to take advantage of something (fairly or unfairly), or a daring feat, or a security flaw someone can abuse.
How do you pronounce “exploit”?
“Exploit” is pronounced EHKSP-loyt (/ˈɛksplɔɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “exploit” in a sentence?
Here is “exploit” used in a sentence: “Stories of his wartime exploits became local legend.”
What part of speech is “exploit”?
Depending on how it is used, “exploit” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “exploit” come from?
The word “exploit” comes from Latin. From Old French esploit, "achievement, profit," related to Latin explicare ("to unfold, accomplish").
Is “exploit” a common word?
“Exploit” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “exploit” have?
“Exploit” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a bold or notable achievement, especially a daring one.
What is the difference between exploit and exploitation?
Exploit as a verb means to make use of something to your advantage, and it can be neutral or negative depending on context. Exploitation is the noun form most commonly used in its negative sense, referring to the unfair use of someone or something for personal gain. Exploit the noun instead refers to a bold or notable achievement, a separate meaning entirely.
What does exploit mean in computing?
In computing, an exploit is a piece of code or technique that takes advantage of a security flaw in software or a system. Security researchers and attackers alike use the term to describe methods for breaking into or manipulating vulnerable systems.
Is exploit always a negative word?
Not always. As a noun meaning a bold or daring achievement, exploit is often positive or neutral, as in the exploits of an explorer. As a verb meaning to treat someone unfairly for personal benefit, it carries a clearly negative meaning.