vulnerable state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vulnerable state" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a politically or economically unstable situation, or a state of being wherein one is easily influenced or taken advantage of. For example, "The citizens of the country were living in a vulnerable state after years of political upheaval."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I was in a very vulnerable state.

The Guardian

This implies less important resource competition for species and a more vulnerable state for the ecosystem.

Acta Oecologica

I blame the minorities, too, for the vulnerable state we are in.

Independent

She said that being in a "vulnerable" state was no excuse.

Independent

Bessie doesn't know who she is in her reduced, vulnerable state.

The New Yorker

Many countries across the region are entering the El Niño period in a vulnerable state.

The Guardian

How you came to find yourself in such a vulnerable state matters.

The Washington Post

"The driver took advantage of my vulnerable state because I had been drinking," she said.

The Guardian

They don't want the outside world to see them in such a vulnerable state.

Harvard Business Review

Mr Mori, a pork-barrel politician, is unlikely to back full-scale bank reform in his present, vulnerable state.

The Economist

Especially in the patient's already vulnerable state, a little privacy can go a long way toward preserving dignity.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific entity's state of vulnerability, follow "vulnerable state" with a prepositional phrase indicating the cause or nature of the vulnerability (e.g., "vulnerable state after the attack", "vulnerable state due to the economic crisis").

Common error

Avoid using "vulnerable state" in overly general terms without specifying the area or manner of vulnerability. For example, instead of saying "The system is in a vulnerable state", clarify with "The system is in a vulnerable state concerning cybersecurity threats".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vulnerable state" functions as a descriptor, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a condition of weakness, susceptibility to harm, or instability. It is used across various contexts to highlight the precarious nature of a subject, as illustrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "vulnerable state" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a condition of susceptibility to harm or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s used across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia, to convey risk or instability. When using "vulnerable state", be specific about the source or nature of the vulnerability. Alternatives like "precarious situation" or "at-risk situation" may be suitable depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember to provide context to avoid generalizations and ensure clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Precarious situation

Focuses on the instability and potential danger of the situation.

Unstable condition

Highlights the lack of stability and potential for sudden change.

Compromised position

Emphasizes a weakened or disadvantageous standing.

At-risk situation

Directly indicates the presence of danger or potential harm.

Defenseless condition

Stresses the lack of protection or ability to resist harm.

Exposed situation

Highlights the lack of cover and increased susceptibility to threats.

Weakened condition

Focuses on the diminished strength or resilience.

Insecure position

Emphasizes the lack of safety and stability.

Susceptible situation

Highlights the ease with which harm can occur.

Fragile state

Emphasizes the delicacy and potential for collapse.

FAQs

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

You can use "vulnerable state" to describe a condition of weakness or susceptibility to harm. For example, "The patient was in a "vulnerable state" after surgery".

What are some alternatives to "vulnerable state"?

Alternatives to "vulnerable state" include "precarious situation", "unstable condition", or "at-risk situation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "vulnerable state" or "fragile state"?

"Vulnerable state" and "fragile state" are similar, but "vulnerable state" often implies a susceptibility to external harm or influence, while "fragile state" emphasizes inherent weakness or instability.

What does it mean to be in a "vulnerable state" emotionally?

Being in a "vulnerable state" emotionally means being more open to experiencing strong emotions, both positive and negative, and potentially more susceptible to emotional distress or manipulation. It's often associated with "precarious situations" or times of great stress.