explotar
/eks-plo-TAR/
to explode
The violent physical detonation of an object.
explotar(verb)
to explode
?physical detonation
,to blow up
?as in a bomb or volatile material
to burst
?like a balloon or tire
📝 In Action
La bomba explotó en el edificio abandonado.
A2The bomb exploded in the abandoned building.
El neumático explotó por la presión del aire.
B1The tire burst due to the air pressure.
Vimos que el volcán estaba a punto de explotar.
B2We saw that the volcano was about to erupt (explode).
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'explotar' as an event
When 'explotar' describes a sudden event, like a bomb going off, it usually works like other action verbs: 'El gas explotó' (The gas exploded).
Actively utilizing natural resources, like harvesting fruit from a tree.
explotar(verb)
to utilize
?resources or opportunities
,to tap into
?potential or resources
to mine
?minerals
,to develop
?a business or idea
📝 In Action
Necesitamos explotar las energías renovables de la región.
B1We need to utilize the region's renewable energy sources.
El director supo explotar su talento para la música.
B2The director knew how to capitalize on his talent for music.
La compañía va a explotar un nuevo yacimiento de cobre.
C1The company is going to mine a new copper deposit.
💡 Grammar Points
Different meanings
Remember that 'explotar' can mean 'to blow up' or 'to use/utilize.' The context will tell you which one is correct. If it’s about resources, it means utilization.
Taking unfair advantage of another person's labor or situation.
explotar(verb)
to exploit
?to take unfair advantage of people
,to abuse
?labor or human rights
to overwork
?employees
📝 In Action
Muchos dueños de fábricas explotan a sus trabajadores con salarios bajos.
B2Many factory owners exploit their workers with low wages.
No podemos permitir que se explote la mano de obra infantil.
C1We cannot allow child labor to be exploited.
Sienten que sus jefes los explotan al hacerlos trabajar horas extras sin pago.
B2They feel their bosses are taking advantage of them by making them work unpaid overtime.
💡 Grammar Points
Moral Weight
When used with people, 'explotar' always carries a negative meaning, implying unfairness or moral wrong. It is never positive.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'explotar' for minor advantage
Mistake: "Voy a explotar la oportunidad de ir de compras."
Correction: Use 'aprovechar' (Voy a aprovechar la oportunidad) if you mean taking a fair, minor advantage. 'Explotar' implies intensive or harmful use.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: explotar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'explotar' in a way that implies unfair treatment?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'explotar' always a negative word?
No. When referring to inanimate objects or resources (like energy, oil, or a talent), it simply means 'to utilize' or 'to develop intensively,' which is a neutral or positive concept. It is only negative when referring to the unfair treatment or abuse of people.
How do I say 'to take advantage of an opportunity' without the negative connotation?
Use the verb 'aprovechar' (to take advantage of/to make the most of). For example: 'Hay que aprovechar esta oportunidad.' (We must take advantage of this opportunity.)