vulnerable

[ˈvʌlnərəbl]

vulnerable Definition

  • 1susceptible to physical or emotional attack or harm
  • 2in need of special care, support, or protection because of age, disability, or risk of abuse or neglect

Using vulnerable: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "vulnerable" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The company's security system was vulnerable to hacking.

  • Example

    Children are often the most vulnerable members of society.

  • Example

    She felt vulnerable and alone after the breakup.

  • Example

    The elderly are particularly vulnerable during a heatwave.

vulnerable Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for vulnerable

Phrases with vulnerable

  • vulnerable species

    a species that is at risk of extinction due to human activity or natural causes

    Example

    The giant panda is a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and poaching.

  • a group of people who are at risk of harm or disadvantage due to their age, health, socioeconomic status, or other factors

    Example

    The homeless are a vulnerable population in need of support and resources.

  • a group of people who are at risk of harm or exploitation, such as children, the elderly, or those with disabilities

    Example

    The government has implemented measures to protect vulnerable sectors of society from abuse and neglect.

Origins of vulnerable

from Latin 'vulnerabilis', from 'vulnerare' meaning 'to wound'

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Summary: vulnerable in Brief

The term 'vulnerable' [ˈvʌlnərəbl] describes a state of being susceptible to physical or emotional harm, or in need of special care or protection. It can refer to individuals or groups, such as 'The elderly are particularly vulnerable during a heatwave.' 'Vulnerable' can also be used to describe systems or structures that are open to attack or exploitation, as in 'The company's security system was vulnerable to hacking.'

How do native speakers use this expression?