Approfittare vs. sfruttare vs. usufruire
The Italian words 'approfittare', 'sfruttare', and 'usufruire' all relate to taking advantage of something, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Approfittare
'Approfittare' means to take advantage of an opportunity or situation, often with a neutral or slightly opportunistic connotation.
Ho approfittato degli sconti per comprare un nuovo telefono.
(I took advantage of the discounts to buy a new phone.)
Approfittiamo del bel tempo per fare una passeggiata.
(Let's take advantage of the nice weather to go for a walk.)
Sfruttare
'Sfruttare' implies a more intensive or exploitative use of something or someone, often with a negative connotation.
L'azienda sfrutta le risorse naturali della regione.
(The company exploits the natural resources of the region.)
Il manager sfrutta i suoi dipendenti facendoli lavorare troppe ore.
(The manager exploits his employees by making them work too many hours.)
Usufruire
'Usufruire' means to make use of or benefit from something, often in a legal or formal context, with a neutral connotation.
Gli studenti possono usufruire della biblioteca universitaria.
(Students can make use of the university library.)
I cittadini possono usufruire dei servizi pubblici gratuitamente.
(Citizens can benefit from public services for free.)
Summary
While all three words relate to taking advantage of something, 'approfittare' is more general and slightly opportunistic, 'sfruttare' implies exploitation and can be negative, and 'usufruire' is more formal and neutral, often used in legal or official contexts.