Exploitive

The adjective 'exploitive' describes actions or systems that unfairly take advantage of others, particularly for financial or personal gain. This involves using someone's vulnerability, labor, or resources in a selfish or unethical manner, often disregarding their well-being or rights. exploitive practices prioritize profit or dominance over fairness, leading to unequal power dynamics and potential harm. It implies a deliberate and often sustained pattern of extracting value while providing minimal or no reciprocal benefits. It can be seen in various contexts, from business practices to personal relationships, highlighting a lack of moral conscience or empathy.

Exploitive meaning with examples

• The company was exposed for its exploitive labor practices, forcing employees to work long hours in unsafe conditions for minimal pay. This blatant disregard for worker rights led to public outcry and calls for stricter regulations, as the focus was solely on profit maximization.
• The exploitive marketing campaign targeted vulnerable consumers, misleading them about product benefits and pressuring them into expensive contracts. This manipulative approach was condemned by consumer protection agencies, who sought to address the deceptive tactics and protect the public.
• Critics accused the landlord of exploitive rent hikes, which were disproportionately affecting low-income tenants, and forcing them into poverty or homelessness, highlighting the challenges they faced during a period of high demand.
• The exploitive relationship was built on manipulation and emotional dependence, as one partner consistently took advantage of the other's insecurities and generosity. This caused a pattern of emotional and psychological distress for one partner and a sustained power imbalance.