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Dictionary.com

capitalize on

VERB
exploit
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abuse apply employ handle manipulate mine profit from use utilize
STRONG
bleed exercise finesse fleece jockey maneuver milk play skin soak stick work
WEAK
avail oneself of cash in on get mileage out of impose upon make capital of make use of play on profit by put to use
Antonyms
STRONGEST
leave alone misuse
VERB
profit
Synonyms
STRONGEST
contribute earn improve pay off prosper take advantage of thrive
STRONG
aid avail benefit better clear exploit help pay promote realize recover score serve use utilize
WEAK
be of advantage cash in on clean up learn from make a haul make a killing make capital make good use of make it big make money make the most of put to good use reap the benefit stand in good stead turn to advantage work for
Antonyms
STRONGEST
decline fail harm hurt lose
STRONG
block condemn deteriorate hinder injure obstruct worsen

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Much of the recent trade in dual-use goods to Iran and Russia is driven by small, nimble Chinese companies that see an opportunity to capitalize on war-driven demand.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

Many series followed in the wake of “Battlestar Galactica” that aspired to capitalize on its legacy; in my mind, “The Expanse” came closest to meeting its level of fearless political and social pertinence.

From Salon • May 5, 2026

Spirit Airlines appears to be losing its fight to stay in business, and its industry rivals may be able to capitalize on its woes.

From MarketWatch • May 1, 2026

It’s this beautiful thing that has happened without us trying to capitalize on it.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

Ulbrickson had swapped a senior, Wink Winslow, for George Morry, as coxswain, to capitalize on Winslow’s greater experience with river rowing.

From "The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics" by Daniel James Brown