a vulnerable point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vulnerable point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific aspect or area that is susceptible to harm, criticism, or failure. Example: "In negotiations, it's important to identify a vulnerable point in the opponent's argument to gain an advantage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"But if somebody in government sees the family as a vulnerable point, then he is mistaken.

The New York Times

A random flick of that powerful tail probably hit the glass at a vulnerable point.

The New York Times - Magazine

Also, even if places are well protected, transportation of materials is a vulnerable point.

The Guardian

"The Indo-Nepal border at Raxaul has become a vulnerable point in the present situation as just everyone wants to flee Nepal right now.

The Guardian

Given this demand, many admissions staff newly recruited to the process had to provide guidance and support to young people making high stakes decisions at a vulnerable point in their lives.

The Guardian

His childhood had evidently been happy, so the analyst had talked about the effects of imaginatively imbibing the haunted universe of The Tempest at a vulnerable point in adolescence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The transition from trainee to independent investigator is a particularly vulnerable point in a translational researcher's career.

Science Magazine

First, Bastion in turret form acquires a big shield at the front but a newly vulnerable point on his back – which any flanking character can take advantage of.

The Guardian - Tech

Because again, classic mistake of financial crises, the government steps on the brake too quickly and they arrest a tenuous sign of recovery, pushing the economy to a more vulnerable point again, prolonging the recession, doing more damage --.

Huffington Post

Potassium level after HD is a very vulnerable point in arrhythmogenesis, considering that hypokalemia (<4 mEq/L), an insufficient decrease of potassium by hemodialysis or hyperkalemia (>5.6 mEq/L), are arrhythmogenic factors [ 83, 85, 86].

BioMed Research International

The aphid that causes potato blight now appears a month earlier than it used to, so it feeds on the plant at a more vulnerable point in its life.The greater incidence of disease may be caused by many things: more insects surviving winter; the banning of dangerous pesticides; cuts in the budgets of institutions that conducted research into diseases; even globalisation.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing strategic situations, use "a vulnerable point" to identify key weaknesses that an opponent might exploit. For instance, "The supply lines represent a vulnerable point in their logistical network".

Common error

Avoid using "a vulnerable point" to describe temporary emotional states. Phrases like "a sensitive moment" or "a delicate situation" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vulnerable point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object within a sentence. As shown by Ludwig, it identifies a specific area or aspect susceptible to harm or exploitation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

30%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a vulnerable point" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to a weakness or area of susceptibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and diverse applicability. Predominantly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, the phrase serves to highlight potential risks or areas needing protection. While versatile, it's important to consider context, choosing more specific alternatives when describing emotional states or strategic weaknesses. Understanding the phrase's function and register allows for its effective use in various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a point of weakness

Directly states the presence of a weak aspect or area.

a weak spot

Focuses on a specific area of weakness rather than a general state of vulnerability.

a sensitive area

Emphasizes the delicacy and potential for negative impact rather than inherent weakness.

a susceptible area

Highlights the potential for being affected or harmed.

an Achilles' heel

Implies a critical weakness that, if exploited, could lead to downfall.

a chink in the armor

Suggests a small but potentially fatal flaw in an otherwise strong defense.

a critical flaw

Draws attention to a significant defect that could lead to failure.

a soft spot

Indicates a place of emotional or physical susceptibility.

a dangerous area

Focuses on potential harm or risk associated with a particular aspect.

an exposed flank

Conveys vulnerability from a strategic or defensive standpoint.

FAQs

How can I use "a vulnerable point" in a sentence?

You can use "a vulnerable point" to describe a weakness or susceptibility in a system, argument, or person. For example, "The company's lack of security measures is a vulnerable point for cyberattacks."

What are some alternatives to "a vulnerable point"?

You can use alternatives like "a weak spot", "a sensitive area", or "an Achilles' heel" depending on the context.

Is "vulnerable point" formal or informal?

"Vulnerable point" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language. In formal writing, it maintains a neutral tone, while in informal conversation, it remains easily understandable.

What's the difference between "a vulnerable point" and "a precarious point"?

"A vulnerable point" refers to a specific area of weakness or susceptibility, while "a precarious point" suggests a situation or condition that is unstable or risky. The former focuses on inherent weakness, the latter on potential danger.