an easy target

USAGE SUMMARY

'an easy target' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to someone or something that is vulnerable and can easily be attacked or taken advantage of. For example, "The small business was an easy target for corporate takeover."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

"He's an easy target".

The New York Times

He was an easy target.

The New York Times

He is an easy target for mockery.

The New York Times

"He is such an easy target.

The New Yorker

Politically, BP is an easy target.

The Economist

The railways offer an easy target.

The New York Times

Bitcoin, he felt, was an easy target.

The New Yorker

The rich are an easy target.

The Economist

The BoJ is an easy target.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Segways are an easy target".

The Guardian

We are an easy target.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an easy target", consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately conveys the intended level of vulnerability or susceptibility. For instance, a political figure might be "an easy target" for criticism, while a neglected computer system might be "an easy target" for hackers.

Common error

While "an easy target" is widely understood, it can sound informal in certain contexts. In academic or professional writing, consider using more precise or nuanced language, such as "vulnerable to exploitation" or "susceptible to manipulation", depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an easy target" functions as a noun phrase, where "easy" modifies the noun "target". It commonly acts as a subject complement or object, describing someone or something vulnerable to attack or criticism, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an easy target" is a commonly used phrase to describe someone or something vulnerable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While versatile, it is essential to consider the formality of the writing context and explore more precise alternatives when needed. The phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to quickly convey a sense of vulnerability and susceptibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

effortless prey

This alternative underscores how easily someone or something can be victimized.

a sitting duck

This alternative emphasizes extreme vulnerability and lack of defense.

open to attack

This alternative highlights a lack of barriers or defenses, making something vulnerable.

a defenseless victim

This alternative highlights the lack of protection and the presence of victimization.

undefended

This alternative emphasizes the absence of any means of protection.

vulnerable to attack

This alternative specifies the susceptibility to being attacked.

helpless

This alternative suggests a complete inability to resist or defend oneself.

ripe for exploitation

This alternative focuses on the potential for being taken advantage of.

susceptible to criticism

This alternative highlights vulnerability to negative feedback.

an obvious choice

While not directly related to vulnerability, it implies ease of selection.

FAQs

How can I use "an easy target" in a sentence?

You can use "an easy target" to describe someone or something that is vulnerable or susceptible to attack or criticism. For example, "The company's outdated security system made it "an easy target" for hackers."

What are some alternatives to "an easy target"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a sitting duck", "vulnerable to attack", or "ripe for exploitation".

Is it appropriate to use "an easy target" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "an easy target" can sound informal in some formal contexts. Consider more precise alternatives such as "susceptible to" or "vulnerable to" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What makes someone or something "an easy target"?

Factors that make someone or something "an easy target" can include a lack of defenses, vulnerabilities in their systems, or a position that invites criticism. It implies a lack of resistance and a high probability of being affected negatively.