ichidan verb, transitive verb
bring out the effect of; put to good use; make use of; season with
Broadly means to actively apply or utilize something so that its effect is felt. Covers using influence, intimidation, seasoning, or making something work effectively.
彼はコネを利かせて、いい席を取った。
He used his connections to get good seats.
スープ
Season the soup with salt.
警察は脅しを利かせて、容疑者を自白させた。
The police used intimidation to make the suspect confess.
ichidan verb, transitive verb
use (tact, wit, etc.); exercise; display
Used with abstract qualities like tact, wit, or consideration, often in the phrase 気を利かせる (to be considerate or use one's head).
See also: 気を利かせる
彼女は気を利かせて、お茶を入れてくれた。
She thoughtfully made us tea.
もっと機転を利かせて話を進めよう。
Let's proceed with the conversation using more tact.