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exploit a weakness
/ɪkˈsplɔɪt ə ˈwiːknəs/
take advantage of a vulnerability
The hacker exploited a weakness in the system to steal data.
The hacker took advantage of a vulnerability in the system to steal data.
general
To take advantage of a vulnerability or flaw in a system, person, or situation for personal gain or advantage.
The salesperson exploited a weakness in the customer's hesitation to close the deal.
The salesperson took advantage of the customer's hesitation to finalize the sale.
The opponent exploited a weakness in the team's defense to score a goal.
The opponent took advantage of a flaw in the team's defense to score a goal.
This phrase is often used in contexts involving strategy, competition, or manipulation.
Collocations
exploit a vulnerabilitytake advantage of a flaw or weaknessexploit a situationtake advantage of circumstances for personal gain
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
This phrase is often used in competitive or strategic contexts, such as business, sports, or cybersecurity.
Gold Rule
Neutral Tone
While the phrase can describe legitimate strategic actions, it can also imply unethical behavior, depending on the context.
Word Origin
The verb 'exploit' comes from the Old French 'exploitier,' meaning 'to achieve, accomplish.' The phrase 'exploit a weakness' combines this with the concept of taking advantage of a flaw.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in business, sports, technology, and psychology to describe strategic actions that leverage vulnerabilities.
Word Breakdown
exploit
to take advantage of
verba weakness
a vulnerability or flaw
noun phraseEnglish Dictionary