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Definition of exploitative

exploitative

/ɪkˈsplɔɪ.tə.tɪv/
ex · ploi · ta · tive
Adverb:exploitatively
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exploitative Lexical Profile

exploitative Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Making use of a situation, resource, or person in an unfair, selfish, or unethical manner for one's own advantage or profit.

Example

"The documentary exposed the company's exploitative labor practices in developing nations."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for exploitative
Antonyms
View all antonyms for exploitative

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'exploitive' is an accepted variant spelling in American English, 'exploitative' is far more common across both British and American English. Both forms carry a strongly negative connotation of unfairness, unlike the verb 'exploit' which can sometimes be used neutrally to mean utilizing a resource.

• Rhymes for exploitative

• Nearby Words

exploit
exploitable
exploitation
exploitative
exploitatively
exploiter
exploitive

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 19th century from the verb 'exploit' plus the suffix '-ative'. 'Exploit' comes from Old French 'esploit', derived from Latin 'explicitum' (something unfolded or settled), from 'explicare' (to unfold).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Exploitative. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/exploitative
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