by exploiting

USAGE SUMMARY

"by exploiting" is a valid phrase that can be used in written English.
It typically means to take advantage of, or to use something to gain something else. For example, "The government has been able to increase its revenue by exploiting new technologies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Camouflage works by exploiting the weaknesses of human perception.

The Guardian - Arts

Capitalism, in this view, works by exploiting the capitalists themselves.

The New York Times

The United States easily beat Iraq and Serbia by exploiting its enormous advantage in conventional arms.

The New York Times

In Belgium, extreme nationalist parties have grown powerful by exploiting tensions between Flemish and French citizens.

The New York Times

Liechtenstein has become a wealthy enclave by exploiting its status as an offshore banking center.

The New York Times

Given that this is the case, could God not create miracles by exploiting this uncertainty?

The Guardian - Opinion

"These companies have knowingly created a public nuisance by exploiting the city of Cleveland".

The New York Times

Make it illegal for employers to undercut wages by exploiting workers.

The Guardian

The project works by exploiting the possibilities of analogue tape to maximum effect.

The Guardian - Music

The multinational oil companies benefitted by exploiting the rich reserves of Angola.

The New Yorker

Sorry – more scope for species to avoid competition by exploiting different parts of the woodland resource.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by exploiting", ensure the context is clear and that you're accurately conveying the method of leveraging something. Consider whether "by taking advantage of" might be a more appropriate, less negative alternative.

Common error

The phrase "by exploiting" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting unfair or unethical use. If your intent is neutral or positive, consider alternatives like "by utilizing" or "by leveraging" to avoid unintended implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by exploiting" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, indicating the means or method through which an action is carried out. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by exploiting" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe how something is achieved by leveraging a particular resource or method. While versatile, as Ludwig AI underlines, it often carries a negative connotation, implying unfair advantage. Therefore, writers should be mindful of the context and consider neutral alternatives like "by utilizing" or "by leveraging" to avoid unintended implications. Usage is very common across News & Media and Scientific contexts, with significant examples from authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. Being aware of these nuances ensures effective and appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by taking advantage of

Highlights the opportunistic nature of the action.

by capitalizing on

Suggests turning something into an asset or opportunity.

leveraging

Implies strategic use for maximum benefit.

through the use of

Focuses on the method or instrument employed.

by employing

Highlights the use of something specific.

utilizing

Emphasizes efficient and practical application.

harnessing

Emphasizes controlling and directing something for a purpose.

making use of

A more general way to express using something.

via

A concise term indicating the means or route.

through

Highlights the channel or medium through which something is achieved.

FAQs

How can I use "by exploiting" in a sentence?

The phrase "by exploiting" introduces the method or means by which something is achieved. For example, "The company increased its profits "by exploiting" a loophole in the tax law."

What are some alternatives to "by exploiting"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "by taking advantage of", "by utilizing", or "by leveraging".

When is it appropriate to use "by exploiting" versus "by utilizing"?

"By exploiting" often suggests taking unfair advantage or using something in a way that might be considered unethical. "By utilizing" is a more neutral term that simply means using something effectively.

Is "by exploiting" always negative?

While "by exploiting" often carries a negative connotation, it's not always inherently bad. It depends on the context and whether the action is considered fair or ethical. However, be mindful of the potential negative perception and consider using a less charged alternative if appropriate.