Meaning
Vulnerable means easily hurt, harmed, or attacked either physically, emotionally, or in another way. It often refers to being exposed to risk or danger without enough protection.
Grammar and Usage
-
Part of speech: Adjective
-
Typical structures:
- "be vulnerable to + noun/gerund" → She is vulnerable to criticism.
- "make sb vulnerable" → The lack of security makes the system vulnerable.
Common Phrases
- vulnerable position
- vulnerable groups/populations
- economically vulnerable
- emotionally vulnerable
- make oneself vulnerable
Collocations
- be vulnerable to attack
- leave someone vulnerable
- feel vulnerable
- highly vulnerable
- socially vulnerable
Examples
- Children are often vulnerable to illnesses in winter.
- The country’s economy is vulnerable to global market changes.
- Without strong defenses, the castle was vulnerable to enemy attacks.
- He opened up about his past, feeling very vulnerable.
- Elderly people can be vulnerable to scams.
- The system is vulnerable to cyber threats.
- She felt vulnerable walking alone at night.
- A broken heart can make anyone feel vulnerable.
Synonyms or Related
- Weak
- Defenseless
- Exposed
- Susceptible
- Unprotected
Antonym
- Strong
- Protected
- Secure
- Resistant
- Invulnerable