point of vulnerability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "point of vulnerability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific area or aspect where someone or something is susceptible to harm or attack. Example: "In cybersecurity, identifying the point of vulnerability in the system is crucial to prevent potential breaches."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"There's clearly a point of vulnerability out there," Prakken noted.

The New Yorker

Trajectories of brain development: point of vulnerability or window of opportunity?

Nature

And they appear to have singled out the number one point of vulnerability.

The Washington Post

In any struggle, failure to understand the opposition is a weakness and a point of vulnerability.

The New York Times

That is a rare point of vulnerability for Mr Kim's interlocutors to exploit.

The Economist

We consider ourselves to be living in a technological age, and that became the point of vulnerability for us.

The New York Times

Each person who joins becomes a "human node" in the system, and a potential point of vulnerability.

Harvard Business Review

The event lacked the energy of Mr. Capriles' campaign appearances, suggesting a point of vulnerability for Mr. Chávez.

The New York Times

Along with inflation, which has risen sharply in recent months, the attacks are a major point of vulnerability for the incumbent administration.

The New York Times

Another point of vulnerability opens up when the retriever is forced to exit the minitank to carry the balls into the garage for washing.

The New York Times

PAGE A16 A POINT OF VULNERABILITY -- Comparing Mr. Edwards to his running mate, Mr. Bush said, "Dick Cheney can be president," focusing on Mr. Edwards's lack of experience.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing cybersecurity, specify the type of "point of vulnerability" (e.g., software, hardware, human error) to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "point of vulnerability" without context. Always specify what is vulnerable and to what threat to provide meaningful insight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "point of vulnerability" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific weakness or susceptible area, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "point of vulnerability" is a commonly used noun phrase that identifies a specific weakness or area susceptible to harm or exploitation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news, science, and business. While alternatives like "area of weakness" or "weak spot" exist, "point of vulnerability" is particularly useful when precision is needed. To ensure clarity, specify what is vulnerable and to what threat. Its frequent occurrence in authoritative sources underscores its importance in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Area of weakness

Replaces "point" with a broader term, "area", emphasizing a general zone of susceptibility.

Weak spot

A more informal and direct way to express a point of vulnerability.

Achilles' heel

An idiomatic expression referring to a critical weakness that can lead to downfall.

Flaw in the system

Focuses on systemic vulnerabilities rather than individual or localized ones.

Source of weakness

Highlights the origin or cause of vulnerability.

Area of susceptibility

More formal and technical, suitable for scientific or professional contexts.

Compromised aspect

Emphasizes the state of being weakened or exposed.

Opening for attack

Focuses on the exploitable nature of the vulnerability.

Linchpin

Describes something/someone essential that, if removed, destroys the whole system

Defenseless aspect

Focuses on the lack of protection in a particular element.

FAQs

How can I use "point of vulnerability" in a sentence?

You can use "point of vulnerability" to describe a weakness that can be exploited, such as "The lack of security protocols was a major point of vulnerability for the company."

What can I say instead of "point of vulnerability"?

You can use alternatives like "area of weakness", "weak spot", or "Achilles' heel depending on the context.

Which is correct, "point of vulnerability" or "area of vulnerability"?

Both "point of vulnerability" and "area of vulnerability" are correct, but "point of vulnerability" implies a more specific location or aspect, while "area of vulnerability" suggests a broader, less defined susceptibility.

What's the difference between "point of vulnerability" and "security risk"?

"Point of vulnerability" refers to a specific weakness, while "security risk" is a broader term that encompasses any potential threat, including vulnerabilities, hazards, and exposures.