Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| aushebeln | |
| wirksam einsetzen | /ˈvɪʁkˌzaːm ˈʔaɪ̯nzɛtsn̩/ (word by word) |
| voll zunutze machen | |
| ausnutzen | /ˈaʊ̯sˌnʊtsən/ |
voll zunutze machen and wirksam einsetzen are used to describe taking full advantage of an opportunity or resource. If you are speaking specifically about finance, the word Hebel refers to leverage or the use of borrowed capital for investment. Related nouns include Hebelwirkung, Hebel and Hebelkraft, which can refer to either the ability to earn high returns or the physical force produced by a lever.
What does it mean word for word?
The noun Hebelwirkung is a compound word consisting of Hebel, meaning lever and Wirkung, meaning effect or impact.
Which one should you use?
The choice of verb depends on your intended connotation. voll zunutze machen is a neutral or positive way to express making full use of a resource. In contrast, ausnutzen often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that someone or something is being exploited unfairly.
Related words
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using ausnutzen if you wish to maintain a positive or neutral tone, as it often implies unfair exploitation.
Did you know?
- The verb machen in voll zunutze machen comes from an ancient root meaning 'to knead', connecting the modern concept of 'making use of' to the physical act of mixing dough.
- In German business contexts, using aushebeln can specifically mean to 'nullify' or 'circumvent' a rule, rather than just using a resource.
Examples in context
- Um eine effektive Geschäftspartnerschaft aufzubauen, sollten wir unsere Ressourcen geschickt ausnutzen.To establish an effective business partnership, we should strategically leverage our resources.
Example conversation
Julia and Julian are discussing a business strategy.
- JuliaWir müssen unsere Ressourcen besser aushebeln.We need to leverage our resources better.
- JulianWie genau sollen wir das machen, Julia?How exactly should we do that, Julia?
- JuliaWir nutzen die neuen digitalen Tools.We use the new digital tools.
- JulianDas klingt nach einem guten Plan, Julia.That sounds like a good plan, Julia.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “leverage” translations and entries ausnutzen, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (wirksam, einsetzen) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ausnutzen, einsetzen, machen, voll, wirksam, CC BY-SA 4.0.
