advantage

/ədˈvɑːntɪdʒ/
nounIntermediate benefit or favorable circumstance
general

A favorable or beneficial circumstance or condition.

Her knowledge of the language gave her an advantage in negotiations.

She had a benefit because she spoke the language.

💡

Often used in contexts where one party has a superior position or opportunity.

general

A position of superiority or favorability over others.

The team took advantage of their opponent's fatigue.

They used their opponent's tiredness to their benefit.

💡

Can imply an unfair or strategic use of a situation.

Collocations

take advantage ofto use something to your benefithave the advantageto be in a superior positionat an advantagein a favorable position

Related Phrases

take advantage ofphrasal verb
to use something to your benefit
have the advantagephrase
to be in a superior position

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

The word 'advantage' is often used in competitive contexts, such as sports, business, or negotiations.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning can shift based on whether the advantage is seen as fair or unfair.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French avantage, from Old French avant 'before' + age 'act of leading'.

📝Usage Notes

Can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on whether the advantage is earned or exploited.

Word Breakdown

avant
before
prefix
+
age
act of leading
root
English Dictionary