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

The homeless are particularly vulnerable during cold winters.
Connotation of Weakness
It implies a weakness or lack of protection, not just physical, but in various situations.

As a small company, we're vulnerable in a market dominated by giants.
Non-literal Use
Used metaphorically, it can describe something threatened, not physically weak.

This policy leaves our environmental laws vulnerable.
Compare with
EndangerExposeFragileHelplessImpressionableOpenSensitiveSusceptibleUnarmedUnprotectedWeak
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension