Vulnerable

usgb/ˈvʌlnərəbl/
adjective

Someone or something that could be harmed easily.

Children are often seen as the most vulnerable members of society.
Visual representation of "vulnerable" - Someone or something that could be harmed easily.

Often appears as...

  • vulnerable to attack
  • vulnerable position
Definition 1 of 4
Visual representation of "vulnerable"
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Emotional Impact

'Vulnerable' often evokes sympathy; it suggests someone can be hurt easily.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
The homeless are particularly vulnerable during cold winters.
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Connotation of Weakness

It implies a weakness or lack of protection, not just physical, but in various situations.

Illustration for Connotation of Weakness
As a small company, we're vulnerable in a market dominated by giants.
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Non-literal Use

Used metaphorically, it can describe something threatened, not physically weak.

Illustration for Non-literal Use
This policy leaves our environmental laws vulnerable.
Word comparison image

Compare with

endangerexposefragilehelplessimpressionableopensensitivesusceptibleunarmedunprotectedweak
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Visual representation of the word "Vulnerable"

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