leverage

英['liːv(ə)rɪdʒ;'lev(ə)rɪdʒ] 美['lɛvərɪdʒ]

1. the mechanical advantage gained by being in a position to use a lever

2. strategic advantage; power to act effectively;

"relatively small groups can sometimes exert immense political leverage"

3. investing with borrowed money as a way to amplify potential gains (at the risk of greater losses)