Translation guide
This English phrase has two main meanings: to make good use of an opportunity or resource (positive), and to exploit someone or a situation unfairly (negative). Japanese uses different expressions for each.
To use a situation, chance, or resource to benefit oneself, without negative connotation.
take advantage of an opportunity · take advantage of the good weather · take advantage of your skills
Common verb meaning to make the most of something, to utilize effectively. Often used for skills, experiences, or opportunities.
To use someone or something in a way that is unfair or selfish, often causing harm.
take advantage of someone's kindness · take advantage of a weak person · take advantage of the situation
The same verb as above, but context makes it negative. Often used with people as the object.
彼は人の好意を利用する。
He takes advantage of people's kindness.
The English phrase 'take advantage of' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Using a literal translation like アドバンテージを取る is unnatural. Always choose an expression based on the intended meaning.
利用する is a general verb for 'use' and can be positive or negative depending on context. 活かす specifically means to make good use of something's inherent qualities, like skills or experience, and is almost always positive.
留学経験を活かして仕事を見つけた。
I took advantage of my study abroad experience to find a job.
Neutral verb meaning to use or utilize. Can be used for both positive and negative contexts, but here it's for positive use.
この機会を利用して新しいスキルを学びたい。
I want to take advantage of this opportunity to learn new skills.
To make effective use of, often used for resources, data, or systems.
データを活用して売上を伸ばした。
We took advantage of the data to increase sales.
To jump on the bandwagon, to take advantage of a trend or situation, sometimes with a slightly opportunistic nuance.
流行に便乗して新商品を発売した。
They took advantage of the trend and launched a new product.
To take advantage of someone's weakness or vulnerability. Implies a sneaky or unfair action.
彼女の弱みにつけ込んで金を借りた。
He took advantage of her weakness and borrowed money.
Literally 'to make someone into food', meaning to exploit or prey on someone for one's own gain. Stronger and more colloquial.
あの会社は従業員を食い物にしている。
That company takes advantage of its employees.
To use someone as one pleases, often implying manipulation.
彼は私をいいように使っているだけだ。
He's just taking advantage of me.
To take advantage of someone's weak position, especially in business or negotiations. Literally 'to look at someone's feet'.
相手の足元を見て値段をふっかけた。
He took advantage of the other party's weak position and hiked the price.