C1adjective 2K

Vulnerable

UK //ˈvʌlnərəbl// US //ˈvʌlnərəbəl// Pronunciation

Definition

Susceptible to physical or emotional harm.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Able to be easily harmed or hurt.

Examples

• Children are especially vulnerable to bullying at school.
• The vulnerable species needs protection to survive.
• After the breakup, she felt emotionally vulnerable and alone.
• In a crisis, the elderly population often becomes the most vulnerable.
• The report highlights vulnerable communities affected by climate change.

Usage notes

Used to describe people, animals, or things that are weak or exposed to harm. Appropriate in both formal and informal settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think 'vulnerable' sounds like 'vulner+able' - you are able to be hurt.

Collocations

• vulnerable population
• vulnerable position
• vulnerable state

Synonyms

• exposed
• defenseless
• susceptible
• unprotected
• weak

Antonyms

• invulnerable
• protected
• safe

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'invulnerable', which means incapable of being wounded.
• Used inappropriately in informal contexts when describing strong entities.
• Omitted the context of emotional vs physical vulnerability.