aproveitar

Senses

1. 1.

   to take advantage of, to make the most of

   to use an opportunity, time, or resource effectively

2. 2.

   to enjoy, to make good use of

   to derive pleasure or benefit from something

3. 3.

   to use, to utilize

   to put something to practical use, especially leftovers or materials

4. 4.

   to exploit, to take advantage of (someone)

   to use someone unfairly for one's own benefit (can be negative)

Examples

• "Vou aproveitar o fim de semana para descansar."

  I'm going to take advantage of the weekend to rest.

• "Aproveite a vida enquanto você é jovem!"

  Enjoy life while you're young!

• "Ela sempre aproveita as sobras para fazer outra refeição."

  She always uses the leftovers to make another meal.

Usage

Very common verb in Brazilian Portuguese. Often used in the imperative "Aproveite!" (Enjoy! / Make the most of it!). Commonly paired with prepositions: "aproveitar para" (to take the opportunity to) and "aproveitar de" (to take unfair advantage of someone). The reflexive "aproveitar-se de" emphasizes exploiting someone or something.