1. taking unfair advantage of someone or something for one’s own benefit

Examples

• The company’s exploitative labor practices included paying workers below minimum wage.
• Critics argued that the documentary was exploitative of the victims’ suffering.
• The exploitative relationship left her feeling used and manipulated.
• Many consider payday loans to be exploitative financial products.
• The film industry has been criticized for its exploitative treatment of young actors.
• Environmental groups condemned the exploitative mining operations in the region.