exploit ourselves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exploit ourselves" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing self-exploitation, such as in discussions about work, personal limits, or self-improvement. Example: "In our pursuit of success, we must be careful not to exploit ourselves to the point of burnout."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Which got these two actors, angling for a comeback, to thinking: How can we best exploit ourselves before the only option left is to be exploited by others?

The New York Times - Arts

We get paid to exploit ourselves.

Los Angeles Times

He explained his use of the word "exploited" as a function of the belief that, "In order to survive as artists in the music industry we often exploit ourselves, and it's the same way the other way around too".

Vice

The truth is that YouTube is primarily a fun place for the non-professionals to play, and while we may feel the unnecessary need to exploit ourselves on it and on similar platforms, it's obvious that real entertainment should be (and for the most part is) left to the big boys and girls.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Better to exploit it ourselves, however it's done!" On the mercury contamination: "No one disputes it.

The Guardian

It's O.K. for we who are privileged to exploit those who are not like ourselves.

The New York Times

If we help ourselves to the 'because' of rationalization, we can further exploit the unity of its 'naïve' and 'sophisticated' forms to give a simple theory of intention-with-which.

SEP

"What counts is no longer so much what we ourselves personally invest in the situation" but rather "how we exploit the potential emerging from the situations" (Jullien, 1999, p. 22).

Frontiers of Business Research in China

We probably didn't gain much more than a few million by doing so, but now find ourselves in a position where other clubs will be able to exploit our desperation to find a replacement.

The Guardian - Sport

Patents like this may never come to fruition, but they force us to ask ourselves: how many aspects of our lives will advertisers try to exploit, and where will it end?

BBC

His main criticism of "the science of well-being" is that it encourages us to blame ourselves while ignoring political and economic contexts and while those in power exploit the science for "private profit" or "social control".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing personal limits or boundaries, use "exploit ourselves" to highlight the potential for self-harm or overextension in the pursuit of a goal.

Common error

While "exploit ourselves" is grammatically correct, avoid using it when a more positive or neutral term like "utilize our potential" or "develop ourselves" would be more appropriate. Overusing "exploit ourselves" can give a negative tone where it's not intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exploit ourselves" functions as a reflexive verb phrase. As noted by Ludwig, it denotes the act of taking advantage of oneself, often to an excessive or detrimental degree. Examples in Ludwig show its use in discussing pushing personal limits and the potential for self-harm.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exploit ourselves" is a grammatically correct but rare reflexive verb phrase used to describe the act of taking undue advantage of one's own resources or abilities, potentially leading to negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and use in discussions related to self-exploitation. As noted by Ludwig, consider alternative expressions like "benefit ourselves" or "develop ourselves" depending on the intended meaning and context. Be mindful of overuse, as it might add a negative tone where not needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

benefit ourselves

Focuses on gaining an advantage or positive outcome, omitting the potentially negative connotation of exploitation.

take advantage of ourselves

Similar to "exploit", but can imply a more opportunistic or less harmful approach.

capitalize on our strengths

Emphasizes using positive attributes to gain an advantage, shifting away from the exploitative aspect.

leverage our abilities

Focuses on maximizing the impact of one's skills, without necessarily implying exploitation.

harness our potential

Highlights the development and utilization of inherent capabilities, steering clear of exploitation.

develop ourselves

Focuses on personal growth and improvement rather than taking advantage.

improve ourselves

Emphasizes betterment and advancement, removing the exploitative element.

advance ourselves

Suggests progress and upward movement, lacking the negative implication of exploitation.

manage ourselves

Highlights self-control and regulation, a different concept than taking advantage.

implement ourselves

Focuses on putting ourselves into action and executing plans effectively. It implies a more proactive and purposeful involvement, shifting away from the potentially negative connotation of exploitation.

FAQs

What does "exploit ourselves" mean?

The phrase "exploit ourselves" refers to the act of taking undue advantage of one's own resources, abilities, or limitations, often leading to negative consequences like burnout or exhaustion.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "exploit ourselves"?

It's appropriate when discussing situations where individuals push themselves too hard, exceeding their personal boundaries in pursuit of a goal. It highlights the potential for self-harm or overextension.

What can I say instead of "exploit ourselves"?

Alternatives include "benefit ourselves", "take advantage of ourselves" (though these can have different connotations), or more positive framings such as "capitalize on our strengths" depending on the context.

How can I avoid negatively "exploit ourselves"?

To avoid negatively "exploit ourselves", prioritize self-care, set realistic goals, and recognize your limits. Delegate tasks and ask for help when needed to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.