to bring out (the effect of); to put to good use; to make use of (e.g. threats); to use (e.g. intimidation); to take advantage of (e.g. one's influence); to season (with salt, etc.); to put in
to use (tact, wit, etc.); to exercise; to display
彼は威圧感を十分に利かした。
He made full use of his air of intimidation.
料理に塩を絶妙に利かしている。
She is seasoning the dish with a perfect touch of salt.
自分の人脈を利かすことで問題を素早く解決した。
By making use of his connections, he resolved the issue quickly.