Translation guide
This English phrase has two main meanings: to make good use of an opportunity or resource (positive), and to exploit someone or a situation unfairly (negative). Japanese uses different expressions for each.
To use a situation, chance, or resource to benefit oneself, without negative connotation.
take advantage of an opportunity · take advantage of the good weather · take advantage of your skills
Common verb meaning to make the most of something, to utilize effectively. Often used for skills, experiences, or opportunities.
I took advantage of my study abroad experience to find a job.
Neutral verb meaning to use or utilize. Can be used for both positive and negative contexts, but here it's for positive use.
I want to take advantage of this opportunity to learn new skills.
To make effective use of, often used for resources, data, or systems.
We took advantage of the data to increase sales.
To jump on the bandwagon, to take advantage of a trend or situation, sometimes with a slightly opportunistic nuance.
They took advantage of the trend and launched a new product.
To use someone or something in a way that is unfair or selfish, often causing harm.
take advantage of someone's kindness · take advantage of a weak person · take advantage of the situation
The same verb as above, but context makes it negative. Often used with people as the object.
He takes advantage of people's kindness.
To take advantage of someone's weakness or vulnerability. Implies a sneaky or unfair action.
Literally 'to make someone into food', meaning to exploit or prey on someone for one's own gain. Stronger and more colloquial.
To use someone as one pleases, often implying manipulation.
He's just taking advantage of me.
To take advantage of someone's weak position, especially in business or negotiations. Literally 'to look at someone's feet'.
The English phrase 'take advantage of' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Using a literal translation like アドバンテージを取る is unnatural. Always choose an expression based on the intended meaning.
利用する is a general verb for 'use' and can be positive or negative depending on context. 活かす specifically means to make good use of something's inherent qualities, like skills or experience, and is almost always positive.
彼女の弱みにつけ込んで金を借りた。
He took advantage of her weakness and borrowed money.
That company takes advantage of its employees.
He took advantage of the other party's weak position and hiked the price.