noun
definition
A force compounded by means of a lever rotating around a pivot; see torque.
example
A crowbar uses leverage to pry nails out of wood.
definition
By extension, any influence which is compounded or used to gain an advantage.
example
Try using competitors’ prices for leverage in the negotiation.
definition
The use of borrowed funds with a contractually determined return to increase the ability of a business to invest and earn an expected higher return, but usually at high risk.
example
Leverage is great until something goes wrong with your investments and you still have to pay your debts.
definition
The ability to earn very high returns when operating at high capacity utilization of a facility.
example
Their variable-cost-reducing investments have dramatically increased their leverage.