vulnerable point

USAGE SUMMARY

"vulnerable point" is a perfectly valid phrase in written English that can be used in many different contexts.
For example, "The company's IT system had a vulnerable point that enabled hackers to gain access to sensitive data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is an acutely vulnerable point.

The New Yorker

"But if somebody in government sees the family as a vulnerable point, then he is mistaken.

The New York Times

They can only weaken it from within by attacking its most vulnerable point: ordinary people.

The New York Times

A random flick of that powerful tail probably hit the glass at a vulnerable point.

The New York Times - Magazine

Also, even if places are well protected, transportation of materials is a vulnerable point.

The Guardian

Well, sure, Sanders admitted, but the southwest border was still the most vulnerable point.

The Washington Post

Siberia is a vulnerable point in the global climate system for two reasons.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr Bolton appeared to be suggesting that cycle could be hit at its most vulnerable point.

The Guardian

He was hit in the neck, the only vulnerable point between his helmet and body armour.

The Guardian - Film

The most vulnerable point of the circle is probably the decision on promotional strategy.

Harvard Business Review

Mr. Isaacs's nuanced compositions eschewed sentimental cliché and boastful machismo in favor of a sensitive, even vulnerable point of view.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In strategic contexts, identify the "vulnerable point" early in your analysis to guide decision-making and resource allocation effectively.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something has a "vulnerable point" without explaining what makes it vulnerable. Always provide details and specific examples to support your claim and ensure the reader understands the nature and scope of the vulnerability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vulnerable point" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object or complement in a sentence. It identifies a specific area, aspect, or moment that is susceptible to harm or attack, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vulnerable point" is a frequently used noun phrase that denotes a weakness or susceptibility in a system, strategy, or even a person. As affirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and appears across diverse contexts, including news, academic research, and scientific studies. The phrase is most often seen in neutral and professional registers. When writing, it is crucial to specify the nature of the "vulnerable point" to provide clear and actionable insights. Alternative phrases such as ""weak spot"" or ""critical juncture"" can be used to add nuance, depending on the context. Avoiding overgeneralization and providing specific details about the "vulnerable point" will enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

critical vulnerability

Emphasizes the severity and importance of the weakness.

weak spot

Focuses on the aspect of being a weak location.

Achilles' heel

Emphasizes a critical weakness that can lead to failure.

area of weakness

Directly states the presence of a deficit or vulnerability.

soft spot

Suggests a place that is easily affected or damaged.

critical juncture

Highlights the importance and sensitivity of a particular moment or place.

point of susceptibility

Highlights the characteristic of being easily influenced or harmed.

exposed flank

Conveys a sense of military vulnerability, often in a strategic context.

sensitive area

Emphasizes the delicacy and potential for harm in a specific region.

unprotected area

Focuses on the lack of defense or security in a certain location.

FAQs

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

You can use "vulnerable point" to describe a weakness or area susceptible to attack or damage. For example, "The company's network security had a "vulnerable point" that allowed hackers to access sensitive data".

What is another way to say "vulnerable point"?

Alternatives to "vulnerable point" include "weak spot", "Achilles' heel", or "critical juncture", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "vulnerable point" or "vulnerability point"?

"Vulnerable point" is the more commonly used and accepted phrase. While "vulnerability point" might be understood, it is not as idiomatic.

What makes something a "vulnerable point"?

A "vulnerable point" is characterized by weaknesses in its defenses, making it susceptible to harm or exploitation. This could be due to design flaws, lack of resources, or strategic importance.