Meaning
to use a situation or opportunity for personal benefit; often implies exploiting something
Primary Function
Verb phrase collocation indicating utilization or exploitation
Communicative Purpose
Expresses making effective, sometimes opportunistic, use of resources or opportunities
Pattern
take advantage of
Core Structure
take advantage of
Função primária
Verb phrase collocation indicating utilization or exploitation
Propósito comunicativo
Expresses making effective, sometimes opportunistic, use of resources or opportunities
Situações de gatilho
When presented with favorable conditions (e.g., good weather), advantageous offers, or helpful connections
Contextos
Professional settings, everyday conversation, academic writing – generally neutral to mildly positive when used appropriately
Padrão
take advantage of
Estrutura central
take advantage of
Slots de substituição
a noun phrase representing the thing being taken advantage of (e.g., the opportunity, the discount, the situation)
Colocados típicos
- good
- opportunity
- connections
- quick promotion
- favorable conditions
Substituições comuns
- make the most of
- capitalise on
- exploit (negative connotation when used pejoratively)
Erros comuns
'take an advantage' or 'get advantage'; these are ungrammatical forms.
Similar / contraste
make the most of (positive), prey on / manipulate (negative) – note opposite valence depending on tone and context.
Interferências
English speakers from cultures where direct exploitation is less common may misinterpret ‘advantage’ as always positive; be mindful of register and intent.
Família do chunk
- capitalise on
- harness
- exploit
- seize upon
Nuance
The phrase can convey both legitimate benefit‑taking and opportunistic, sometimes unethical, use. Context determines acceptability.
Efeito pragmático
Suggests proactive action and readiness to capitalize on opportunities, which can sound assertive or even aggressive if overused.
Dica de memória
seize the chance
Nota
This phrase is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but care should be taken to avoid sounding opportunistic or exploitative.
Upgrade path
use → make use of → take full advantage of
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