Verb

aus|nutzen

Translation

to exploit, to take advantage of, to utilize

Er nutzt seine Macht aus.

He exploits his power.

Wir sollten die Gelegenheit ausnutzen.

We should take advantage of the opportunity.

Sie hat den Platz gut ausgenutzt.

She made good use of the space.

((sb./sth.)) to exploit, take advantage of (sb./sth.) He is taking advantage of her kindness.

Synonyms: ausbeuten (to exploit), verwenden (to use); Antonym: verschwenden (to waste)

Composed of 'aus-' (out, completely) and 'nutzen' (to use). The literal sense is 'to use up' or 'to use completely'.

Visualize 'using' (nutzen) something until it's all 'out' (aus). This can imply either efficient utilization or selfish exploitation.