easy targets

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "easy targets" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to people, objects, or ideas that are vulnerable or susceptible to criticism, attack, or manipulation. Example: In his speech, the politician singled out the elderly as easy targets for his proposed budget cuts.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

They were easy targets.

The New Yorker

They're easy targets".

The New York Times

PLAYERS are easy targets.

The New York Times - Sports

Americans are easy targets.

The New York Times

He often attacks easy targets.

The New Yorker

What made women easy targets?

The Guardian

Monk seals are easy targets.

The New York Times - Magazine

And easy targets at that.

The New York Times - Books

"Clowns are such easy targets".

The New York Times - Style

People who are easy targets.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Older people are easy targets.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Provide context when describing someone or something as "easy targets". Explain the specific vulnerabilities that make them susceptible to exploitation or criticism.

Common error

Avoid using "easy targets" as a blanket term without specifying the context. Be precise about what makes the target vulnerable and who might be taking advantage of that vulnerability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "easy targets" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as a direct object, subject complement, or appositive. It identifies individuals, groups, or entities perceived as vulnerable or susceptible to attack, criticism, or manipulation. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "easy targets" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe individuals, groups, or entities that are vulnerable to attack, criticism, or exploitation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, primarily within news and media. The term carries a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse writing styles, but writers should be mindful of the ethical implications and avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives such as "vulnerable subjects" or "sitting ducks" can provide nuanced perspectives depending on the specific context. Understanding its communicative purpose and potential connotations ensures effective and responsible use of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vulnerable subjects

Focuses on the inherent weakness or susceptibility to harm of the individuals or entities.

sitting ducks

Emphasizes the lack of defense and the obvious nature of the target.

defenseless victims

Highlights the inability to protect themselves and the state of being harmed.

obvious targets

Underscores the ease with which they can be identified and attacked.

exposed flanks

Implies a strategic vulnerability, often in a military or competitive context.

soft spots

Refers to areas of weakness that can be easily exploited.

helpless prey

Suggests a predatory dynamic where the target is unable to resist.

convenient scapegoats

Indicates that someone is unfairly blamed for problems, often to deflect responsibility.

accessible victims

Highlights the ease to which someone can become a victim

clear marks

Implies a target that is readily identified and easily taken advantage of, often in a financial or deceptive context.

FAQs

How can I use "easy targets" in a sentence?

You can use "easy targets" to describe individuals or groups who are vulnerable to attack, criticism, or exploitation. For example: "The elderly are often "easy targets" for scams".

What are some alternatives to saying "easy targets"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "vulnerable subjects", "sitting ducks", or "defenseless victims".

Is it always negative to describe someone as an "easy target"?

While often used in a negative context to describe exploitation, calling someone an "easy target" can also highlight their vulnerability and the need for protection, without inherently assigning blame.

What makes someone or something an "easy target"?

Factors that make someone an "easy target" can include lack of power, resources, or protection, as well as social biases or prejudices that make them more susceptible to mistreatment. It depends on the specific situation.