a vulnerable position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vulnerable position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is exposed to potential harm, risk, or disadvantage. Example: "After the recent layoffs, many employees found themselves in a vulnerable position regarding job security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"No3 is obviously a vulnerable position for anyone," said Grayson.

The Guardian - Sport

This locates the Nation in a vulnerable position.

The Guardian

"Why put people purposefully in a vulnerable position?

The New York Times

"If a guy's in a vulnerable position, don't hit him.

The New York Times - Sports

Carter began the campaign in a vulnerable position.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tenants are in a vulnerable position in relation to investments by landlords in their homes.

Cities

In obstetrical and gynaecological healthcare, patients often find themselves in a vulnerable position.

European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology

"Unpaid interns are in a vulnerable position, afraid to take action against dodgy employers.

The Guardian - Money

"You are in a vulnerable position," said Mr. Phillips, who works for Delta Dental insurance.

The New York Times

The lack of more ambitious provisions to strengthen governance leaves Mali in a vulnerable position.

The Guardian

I was in such a vulnerable position I couldn't see how wrong it was," she says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more specific synonyms if the context allows for a more precise description of the vulnerability, such as "exposed", "weakened", or "compromised".

Common error

Avoid using "a vulnerable position" without specifying the nature of the vulnerability. Vague statements lack impact. Instead of saying "The company is in a vulnerable position", specify "The company is in a vulnerable position due to its reliance on a single supplier."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vulnerable position" functions as a noun phrase that describes a state or condition of being susceptible to harm, risk, or attack. Ludwig shows its widespread use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a vulnerable position" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that describes a state of being susceptible to harm or risk. Ludwig AI confirms that its versatility extends across various domains, including news, science, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, it's important to specify the nature of the vulnerability to provide clarity and impact. Alternatives include "precarious situation" or "exposed position", each offering slightly different nuances. To ensure effective communication, avoid overgeneralization and specify the reasons behind the "a vulnerable position". This detailed analysis, combined with practical tips, aims to enhance your understanding and usage of this common expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precarious situation

Replaces "vulnerable" with a focus on instability and uncertainty.

exposed position

Emphasizes the lack of protection or cover.

weakened state

Highlights the reduced strength or resilience.

compromised situation

Suggests that integrity or security has been breached.

unprotected stance

Focuses on the absence of defenses or safeguards.

defenseless state

Highlights the inability to resist attack or harm.

tenuous situation

Indicates a fragile or precarious condition.

susceptible condition

Emphasizes proneness to being affected negatively.

at risk

A more concise way to express the presence of danger.

in jeopardy

Indicates being at risk of failure, loss, or harm.

FAQs

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

You can use "a vulnerable position" to describe a situation where someone or something is exposed to potential harm or risk. For instance, "The small business was in "a vulnerable position" after the economic downturn".

What are some alternatives to "a vulnerable position"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "precarious situation", "exposed position", or "weakened state".

Is it better to say "vulnerable position" or "precarious situation"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a vulnerable position" emphasizes susceptibility to harm, while "precarious situation" focuses on instability and uncertainty. Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a vulnerable position" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "a vulnerable position" when you want to highlight that someone or something is at risk of being harmed or negatively affected. This phrase is suitable for various contexts, including news reports, academic papers, and business communications.