are subject to attack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are subject to attack" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing vulnerability or susceptibility to criticism, harm, or physical assault. Example: "The security measures in place are subject to attack from various cyber threats."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedia

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Both are perceived as foreign, and both are subject to attack by the immune system.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The most aggressive way for White to play is 12 O-O-O, but both kings are subject to attack.

The New York Times - Arts

Breads, cakes, sweet rolls, and some other bakery foods may contain as much as 38 to 40 percent water when freshly baked and are subject to attack by many fungi and a few bacteria.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Wool and silk are subject to attack by moths but may be made moth repellent by the application of appropriate chemicals either added in the dye bath or applied to the finished fabric.

Britannica

Cats that spend time roaming outdoors are subject to attack by other cats, dogs and wild animals (or people), are more apt to be hit by cars, and are more likely to contract a host of diseases or suffer from poisonings.

The New York Times

Like so many services based on access to a non-exclusive body of data, they are subject to attack from ground-up projects duplicating or improving their content.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The I.R.S. has been subject to attack from both sides.

The New York Times

"And the board's judgment on this issue is not going to be subject to attack".

The New York Times

In-network aggregation can save significant bandwidth in a distributed query system, but is subject to attack by adversaries.

University of California, Berkeley

Unseasoned (green) wood is subject to attack by fungi and insects, and it also shrinks as it dries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Second, petitioner contends that the Secretary's action is subject to attack under the principles established by this Court's decision in United States ex rel.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are subject to attack", clearly specify the entity being attacked and the source of the attack to provide context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions with "are subject to attack". Whenever possible, rephrase to use an active voice for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are subject to attack" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, describing a state of vulnerability or susceptibility to harmful actions. Ludwig examples show it applying to diverse subjects, from computer systems to individuals.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

22%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Academia

11%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are subject to attack" is a common and grammatically sound way to express vulnerability. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility allows for usage across various contexts, from news reports to encyclopedic entries. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying both the entity at risk and the source of the potential threat. Alternatives like "are vulnerable to assault" can be used for a more forceful tone, while "are open to criticism" may be better suited for discussions about scrutiny.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are vulnerable to assault

Replaces 'attack' with 'assault', emphasizing physical harm.

are susceptible to being targeted

Focuses on the 'targeting' aspect of an attack, highlighting intent.

are exposed to danger

Broadens the scope to any kind of 'danger', not just attacks.

are at risk of being invaded

Implies a forceful entry or intrusion, often in a territorial sense.

are liable to be stormed

Suggests a sudden and violent assault.

are defenceless against aggression

Highlights the lack of protection against hostile actions.

are prone to incursions

Implies a gradual or repeated series of attacks or intrusions.

are open to criticism

Shifts the context from physical attacks to verbal or written critiques.

are sensitive to manipulation

Focuses on the potential for being influenced or controlled negatively.

are easily threatened

Highlights the ease with which something can be put in danger.

FAQs

How can I use "are subject to attack" in a sentence?

You can use "are subject to attack" to describe something or someone that is vulnerable to harm or criticism. For example, "Systems without proper security "are subject to attack" by hackers".

What's a more formal way to say "are subject to attack"?

In a more formal context, consider using phrases like "are vulnerable to assault" or "are susceptible to being targeted". These alternatives offer a similar meaning with a slightly elevated tone.

What can I say instead of "are subject to attack" when talking about criticism?

When referring to criticism, alternatives like "are open to criticism" or "are vulnerable to scrutiny" might be more appropriate.

Which is correct, "is subject to attack" or "are subject to attack"?

"Is subject to attack" is used with singular nouns (e.g., "The system is subject to attack"), while "are subject to attack" is used with plural nouns (e.g., "The systems "are subject to attack"").