Definition

Describing actions or practices that unfairly use someone or something for personal gain or profit.

Example

The company's exploitative labor practices drew criticism from human rights organizations.

Conversation

Have you heard about that company that's been really exploitative towards its workers?

Yeah, it's frustrating to see how they treat people for profit.

I can't believe they get away with such exploitative practices.

I know, it's time for more people to speak up about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Exploitative → It is formed from "exploit" (from Latin "exploitatio", meaning to unfold or to make use of) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "exploitative" describes something that has the nature of making use of others, often in an unfair or unethical way.

Memory Tip

Think of 'making use of' ('exploit') in a way that is unfair or unethical, which is what 'exploitative' means.

Visually Confused Words