takes advantage of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "takes advantage of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express that someone (or something) is using a situation or opportunity to its benefit. Example: She took advantage of the training program to further her career.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The move takes advantage of those strengths.

The New York Times - Sports

Sprout takes advantage of that loophole.

The New York Times - Tech

"Everyone takes advantage of us".

The Guardian

China takes advantage of us.

The Washington Post

The government takes advantage of this.

The Guardian

This recipe takes advantage of both assets.

The New York Times - Food

Every country takes advantage of us almost.

The Washington Post

Time-saving tool takes advantage of CRISPR gene-editing technology.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The best solution takes advantage of both of these methods.

Yale University

Our system takes advantage of wireless using 433 Mhz radio.

Cornell University

"This is a guy who takes advantage of little people".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes advantage of" to describe strategic use of resources, skills, or situations. It's effective in explaining how a plan or approach benefits from specific elements.

Common error

Avoid using "takes advantage of" when a more neutral term like "utilizes" or "benefits from" would be more appropriate. Overusing this phrase can introduce an unintended negative slant to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes advantage of" functions as a verb phrase, often acting as the predicate of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it indicates the action of utilizing something, whether it's an opportunity, resource, or even another person's vulnerability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

24%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "takes advantage of" is a versatile verb phrase widely used in the English language. As affirmed by Ludwig, its primary function is to describe the act of utilizing something, be it an opportunity, resource, or even a weakness, for one's own benefit. While generally neutral in tone, it can carry a negative connotation depending on the context, emphasizing the importance of considering word choice when using it in writing.

With a very common frequency, it is frequently found in news and media, scientific publications, and academic writing. Alternatives such as "capitalizes on" or "leverages" can provide more nuanced expressions, highlighting strategic utilization. Therefore, writers should be mindful of the intended meaning and adjust their language accordingly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capitalizes on

Emphasizes turning something into an advantage, often implying skill or strategic thinking.

makes the most of

Highlights maximizing the positive aspects or opportunities within a given situation.

leverages

Suggests using something to maximize an outcome, often in a business or strategic context.

exploits

Implies using something, sometimes unfairly or selfishly, for one's own gain.

makes use of

A neutral alternative that simply indicates utilization without any added connotation.

benefits from

Focuses on receiving a positive outcome from something, highlighting the advantageous result.

profits from

Indicates gaining a tangible benefit, often financial, from a situation or resource.

utilizes

A formal and neutral term for making practical and effective use of something.

draws on

Suggests using a particular resource or quality as a source of strength or assistance.

harnesses

Implies controlling and directing something, often a natural force or resource, for a specific purpose.

FAQs

What does "takes advantage of" mean?

The phrase "takes advantage of" means to make good use of an opportunity or resource. It can also imply exploiting someone's weakness or vulnerability for personal gain depending on the context.

How can I use "takes advantage of" in a sentence?

You can use "takes advantage of" to describe how someone or something benefits from a particular situation or resource. For example, "The company "capitalizes on" its strong brand recognition to increase sales".

What are some alternatives to "takes advantage of"?

Some alternatives to "takes advantage of" include "capitalizes on", "makes use of", "benefits from", or "leverages", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "takes advantage of" versus "exploits"?

"Takes advantage of" can be neutral or slightly positive, suggesting skillful utilization. "Exploits" carries a negative connotation, implying unfair or unethical use. Choose based on whether the action is considered fair and ethical. If not, consider using "exploits".