Translation guide
The English word "exploit" has two main meanings: (1) to take unfair advantage of someone or something, and (2) to make full use of a resource or opportunity. Japanese uses different words for these meanings, and the negative sense is more common in everyday language.
Express that someone is using another person, a situation, or a system in a selfish or unethical way for their own benefit.
exploit workers · exploit someone's kindness · exploit a loophole
The most direct translation for exploiting people, especially in contexts of labor or economic exploitation. It implies extracting value unfairly.
その会社は従業員を搾取している。
That company exploits its employees.
A broader term meaning 'to use' or 'take advantage of'. It can be neutral or negative depending on context. When used for exploitation, it often implies manipulating a person or situation for personal gain.
Can also mean simply 'to use' in a neutral sense. Context is key.
Express that someone is using something to its maximum potential, often in a positive or neutral sense (e.g., exploiting natural resources, exploiting a talent).
exploit an opportunity · exploit natural resources · exploit a talent
Means 'to make good use of' or 'to utilize effectively'. Commonly used for skills, resources, data, etc. It has a positive connotation.
彼は自分の才能を十分に活用している。
He fully exploits his talents.
搾取する is specifically about unfair exploitation, especially of people. 利用する is broader and can be neutral (utilize) or negative (take advantage of). Use 搾取する for clear cases of unethical exploitation, and 利用する when the context is ambiguous or when you mean 'make use of'.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all meanings of 'exploit'. Always consider whether you mean unfair exploitation or effective utilization, and choose the appropriate term.
その会社は児童労働を搾取していると非難された。
The company was accused of exploiting child labor.
この問題を解決するために、あらゆる資源を活用する必要がある。
We need to exploit every possible resource to solve this problem.
彼は人の善意を利用する。
He exploits people's goodwill.
A colloquial phrase meaning 'to use someone as one pleases' or 'to take advantage of someone'. It conveys a sense of being used unfairly.
彼は私をいいように使っている。
He's exploiting me (using me for his own convenience).
A vivid, somewhat slangy expression meaning 'to prey upon' or 'to exploit' someone, often financially or sexually. It has a strong negative connotation.
彼は弱い者を食い物にしている。
He exploits the weak.
As above, this can also mean 'to utilize' in a neutral or positive sense, especially for resources or opportunities.
太陽光を利用して発電する。
Exploit solar energy to generate electricity.
Means 'to develop' or 'to exploit' in the sense of tapping natural resources or opening up new areas. Often used in economic or technical contexts.
その国は天然資源を開発している。
The country is exploiting its natural resources.