Synonyms for

Vulnerable

Verb / ˈvʌlnɜ:ʌbʌl / Another word for vulnerable — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

able to be easily hurt, harmed, or attacked, either physically or emotionally

Synonyms & similar words

invulnerable defenseless exposed helpless powerless weak fragile susceptible open insecure unprotected unstable unsteady unreliable unsecured liable accessible attackable endangered imperiled

Synonyms by register

Formal

susceptible exposed defenseless at risk

Informal

weak helpless easy target

Literary

tender frail

Antonyms

invulnerable protected safe secure strong resilient impenetrable

Common collocations

  • vulnerable to attack
  • vulnerable population
  • vulnerable to disease
  • vulnerable to criticism
  • vulnerable to exploitation
  • vulnerable stage
  • emotionally vulnerable

Word family

noun vulnerability
adjective vulnerable
adverb vulnerably

Usage note

Often used to describe a state of being open to harm, whether physical, emotional, or societal. Be mindful of the context to convey the precise degree of susceptibility.

Example sentences

  1. The turtle is vulnerable when it's out of its shell.
  2. Old people are more vulnerable to the flu.
  3. The weak spot in the fence made the house vulnerable to burglars.
  4. The country became vulnerable when the army was weakened.
  5. The young girl felt vulnerable when she was alone at night.

Quotes

  • The only true vulnerability is having no vulnerability.
  • Being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure.
  • The courage to be vulnerable is not about winning or losing, it's about the courage to show up when you can't predict or control the outcome.

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