profit, advantage, benefit
利 centers on a favorable outcome or gain: profit, advantage, or benefit. It expresses the idea of something working to one's good.
use; utilization; utilisation; application
victory; triumph; win; conquest; success
right; privilege
convenient; handy; useful
profit; gains
advantage; benefit; profit; interest
advantageous; favourable; better; stronger
disadvantage; handicap; unfavorable position
interest rate; interest
advantage; point in favor; point in favour
money-making; commercialized; commercialised
convenience
self-interest
advantages and disadvantages; interests (of parties)
disadvantage; handicap; drawback; inadvisability; inexpediency; loss
interest; rights; concession
left-handedness; left-handed person; left-hander
interest (on a deposit, loan, etc.)
gravel; ballast; pebbles
clever; intelligent; bright; smart; wise; sensible; shrewd
interest (on a loan, deposit etc.)
increase in interest rates
interest; (investment) yield; profits
sharp; keen; acute
利 combines 禾 (grain) and 刂 (knife), suggesting the idea of cutting grain with a sharp tool for a good harvest, hence profit or benefit.
Picture a sharp knife 刂 harvesting grain 禾: the harvest brings profit and advantage.
For リ, imagine a farmer reaping grain with a knife and saying 'Reap the profit!': reap -> リ.