explota

Explota is a common form in Spanish that can appear in two different verb meanings, both expressed by the infinitive explot ar: to explode (explode or blow up) and to exploit (use for gain, or treat unfairly). The spelling is identical, so the interpretation depends on context and, in many cases, on the broader sentence.

As a present-tense form, explota is the third-person singular of both verbs in the indicative mood: él explota can mean “he explodes” or “he exploits,” depending on which explot ar is intended. It can also be the affirmative tú command: Explota, meaning “Explode!” in informal address. The same form appears in other tenses with distinct meanings for each verb, for example explota in the present to describe a bomb or a company’s actions, and explot a in related forms such as explot a r.

Explosion sense: Explotar meaning to explode or blow up. Examples include a bomb, a rocket, or a volcano where "la bomba explota" or "el cohete explota." The focus is on a sudden release of energy or a rupture.

Exploitation sense: Explotar meaning to exploit, utilize, or develop resources or people. This use covers extraction of natural resources, business practices that maximize gain, or taking advantage of someone. Examples include "la empresa explota recursos naturales" or "no deben explotar a los trabajadores."

Related terms include exploded or explosion (explosión) and exploitation (explotación). The word's precise meaning is determined by context, with etymology tracing back to the verbs explotar in Spanish.