are vulnerable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are vulnerable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being exposed to the possibility of harm or attack, whether physically, emotionally, or in terms of security. Example: "In times of crisis, many communities are vulnerable to economic instability and social unrest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Entire communities are vulnerable".

The New York Times

They are vulnerable".

The New York Times - Science

Artists, however, are vulnerable.

The New Yorker

Both parts are vulnerable.

The Economist

Both are vulnerable.

The Economist

"They are vulnerable to exploitation".

The New York Times

Surprisingly, though, they are vulnerable.

BBC

What if you are vulnerable?

The New York Times

"Migrants are vulnerable.

The New York Times

"The people are vulnerable".

The New York Times - Style

These boys are vulnerable.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing vulnerability, specify the source or nature of the threat. For example, instead of just stating "they are vulnerable", clarify "they are vulnerable to cyberattacks" or "they are vulnerable to economic downturns".

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "are vulnerable" without providing context. It is more effective to specify what makes something or someone vulnerable and what potential harm they face, rather than leaving it open to interpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are vulnerable" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of being susceptible to harm or attack. Ludwig shows that it modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating a condition of weakness or exposure. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are vulnerable" is a versatile and frequently used expression that describes a state of susceptibility to harm or attack. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for a wide range of contexts. The phrase appears most commonly in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, indicating its relevance across diverse fields. To enhance clarity, it's important to specify the source of the vulnerability rather than using it in isolation. Alternatives such as ""are at risk"" or "are susceptible" can be used to subtly shift the nuance of the statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are at risk

Emphasizes the presence of potential danger or negative consequences.

are susceptible

Highlights a predisposition or tendency to be affected by something.

are exposed

Focuses on the state of being open to influence or harm.

are defenseless

Stresses the lack of protection or means to resist attack.

are unprotected

Similar to defenseless, but with a broader sense of lacking safeguards.

are liable

Indicates a probability or legal responsibility to experience something negative.

are prone to

Implies a natural inclination or tendency towards something undesirable.

are easily affected

Highlights the ease with which something can be influenced or harmed.

are in danger

Conveys a more immediate and serious threat.

are endangered

Suggests risk of extinction or complete loss.

FAQs

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

You can use "are vulnerable" to describe entities susceptible to harm, attack, or negative consequences. For example, "Small businesses "are vulnerable" during economic recessions" or "Children "are vulnerable" to online predators."

What's a more formal alternative to "are vulnerable"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "are susceptible", "are at risk", or "are exposed". For example, instead of "The system is vulnerable", you could say "The system "is susceptible" to exploitation".

What's the difference between "are vulnerable" and "are at risk"?

"Are vulnerable" implies a weakness or susceptibility, while "are at risk" suggests an existing threat. Something that is vulnerable might not currently be facing a threat, but has the potential to be harmed if a threat emerges. Something "are at risk" is actively threatened.

Which is correct, "are vulnerable to" or "are vulnerable from"?

"Are vulnerable to" is generally the correct and more common usage. It indicates what something is susceptible to. "Are vulnerable from" is less common and often implies protection being removed. It is preferable to use "are vulnerable to" in most instances.