expression, ichidan verb
put to use; make good use of; exploit
Transitive expression meaning to use something or someone effectively for a purpose. Can range from positive 'make good use of' to neutral 'put to use' or slightly negative 'exploit' depending on context.
この経験を次の仕事に役に立てたい。
I want to put this experience to use in my next job.
彼は人脈をうまく役に立てて出世した。
He made good use of his connections and got promoted.
彼女は彼の弱みを役に立てて脅した。
She exploited his weakness and threatened him.