demonstrate vulnerability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demonstrate vulnerability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of showing one's weaknesses or openness, often in a personal or emotional context. Example: "In her speech, she chose to demonstrate vulnerability by sharing her struggles with mental health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

In this study, we demonstrate vulnerability as a product of the interactions among marine harvesters, government and buyers.

Applied Geography

— not all the time but when appropriate — is to demonstrate vulnerability, because that will bring people closer to you and show people the human side of you.

The New York Times

Theoretically we are in Rajasthan, but really we are off on a Saga holiday to Tea-with-Mussolini country, a world in which picturesque oldsters, out of their comfort zone, demonstrate vulnerability, vitality and pluck.

The Guardian - Film

Theoretically we are in Rajasthan, but really we are off on a Saga holiday to Tea-with-Mussolini country, a world in which picturesque oldsters, out of their comfort zone, demonstrate vulnerability, vitality and pluck.

The Guardian - Film

Now, in order to demonstrate vulnerability, you have to make sure you have people around you who will never use that against you, because you trust them and they trust you.

The New York Times

He is willing to demonstrate vulnerability and admit what he doesn't know, and fortunately surrounds himself with brilliant people who can offer aid. 3 Relationships come first.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Miller rose to fame in 2015 when he hacked a journalist's vehicle from a laptop 10 miles away in a pre-arranged stunt to demonstrate vulnerabilities within the automotive industry.

TechCrunch

Demonstrating vulnerability can be effective.

Harvard Business Review

However, while nearly every process in human physiology relies on homeostatic mechanisms for stability, only some have demonstrated vulnerability to dysregulation.

Cell

Wales looked tired as they tried in vain to salvage victory, lacking inspiration in midfield in the absence of Allen and Ramsey and demonstrating vulnerability in defence which may have been exploited more ruthlessly by stronger opposition.

BBC

The composition NRPE A3 demonstrated vulnerability to oxidative degradation by air or light during the drying process by freeze drying, evidenced by the darkening of the material thus obtained.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to build trust, deliberately "demonstrate vulnerability" by sharing personal anecdotes or acknowledging your own imperfections. This makes you more relatable and fosters stronger connections with others.

Common error

Avoid oversharing or exaggerating your vulnerabilities, as this can be perceived as a sign of incompetence rather than authenticity. Strive for a balance between openness and maintaining a professional image.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demonstrate vulnerability" functions as a verb phrase, where "demonstrate" acts as a transitive verb requiring a direct object ("vulnerability"). Ludwig's examples show it used in various sentence structures to indicate the act of displaying or showing one's weaknesses or susceptibility.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "demonstrate vulnerability" is a grammatically correct and relatively uncommon phrase used to describe the act of showing weaknesses or susceptibility. According to Ludwig, its usage spans across various contexts, including news, science, and academia, with the primary goal of building trust or highlighting potential flaws. When using this phrase, it's essential to consider the context and audience to ensure the message is received as authentic and not as a sign of incompetence. Alternatives like "show vulnerability" or "reveal weakness" can also be considered, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show vulnerability

A more direct and commonly used synonym, suitable for most contexts.

exhibit vulnerability

Similar to "show vulnerability" but may imply a more passive or unintentional display.

reveal weakness

Focuses specifically on uncovering flaws or shortcomings.

display susceptibility

Emphasizes the potential to be affected by something negative.

unveil fragility

Highlights the delicate or easily damaged nature of something.

expose defenselessness

Focuses on the lack of protection or ability to resist harm.

lay bare vulnerability

Suggests a deliberate and complete exposure of one's weaknesses.

present a vulnerable front

Implies an outward appearance of being susceptible to attack or harm.

offer oneself as vulnerable

Indicates a conscious choice to be open and susceptible to emotional or physical harm.

make a show of vulnerability

Suggests that the vulnerability is displayed for effect, potentially insincerely.

FAQs

How can I "demonstrate vulnerability" in a professional setting?

In a professional environment, "demonstrate vulnerability" by admitting when you don't know something and asking for help, or by sharing lessons learned from past mistakes. This shows humility and a willingness to learn.

What is the difference between "demonstrate vulnerability" and "show weakness"?

"Demonstrate vulnerability" implies a conscious choice to reveal imperfections, often to build trust or connection. "Show weakness", on the other hand, can suggest an unintentional or undesirable display of inadequacy.

What are some synonyms for "demonstrate vulnerability"?

Alternatives to "demonstrate vulnerability" include "show vulnerability", "exhibit vulnerability", or "reveal weakness", depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it always appropriate to "demonstrate vulnerability"?

No, it's not always appropriate to "demonstrate vulnerability". Consider the context, your relationship with the audience, and the potential impact of your disclosure. Choose moments where it will foster connection and trust, rather than create discomfort or undermine your credibility.