Assailable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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assailable
[əˈseɪləb(ə)l ]
Definition
vulnerable
able to be attacked or criticized
Synonyms
attackable, criticizable, vulnerable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| assailable |
Use this word when referring to someone or something that can be attacked or criticized, often in a strategic or physical sense. It suggests that there are clear weaknesses that can be exploited.
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| vulnerable |
This word should be used when describing someone or something that is open to being harmed or adversely affected, both physically and emotionally. It often evokes a sense of sympathy or concern.
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| attackable |
This word is best used when talking about a person, place, or thing that can be attacked, mostly in a physical or military context.
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| criticizable |
This term is used when referring to actions, behaviors, or ideas that can be criticized. It often carries a negative connotation, implying that there is something wrong or flawed.
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Examples of usage
- Her argument was assailable and easily refuted.
- The fortress was considered assailable due to its weak defenses.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In classic literature, characters often face assailable positions, representing their inner vulnerabilities and moral dilemmas.
- The concept of being assailable is frequently explored in poetry, where the fragility of human emotions is highlighted.
- Famous works like Shakespeare's tragedies depict characters whose decisions leave them assailable to fate and external forces.
Philosophy
- In philosophical debates, ideas are considered assailable when they can be effectively challenged or questioned.
- The notion of 'assailable truths' highlights that even widely accepted concepts may have weaknesses that can be exposed.
- Philosophers encourage rigor in arguments to minimize assailable positions, promoting stronger reasoning.
Politics
- Politicians often find themselves in assailable positions when they make controversial statements that can be easily attacked by opponents.
- Public policies can become assailable if they lack community support, making them targets for criticism during debates.
- Media coverage can shift the perception of a political figure from strong to assailable with the right narrative.
Cybersecurity
- In the digital world, systems with unpatched vulnerabilities are considered assailable, inviting hackers to exploit weaknesses.
- Awareness of assailable systems is crucial for organizations to maintain cybersecurity and protect sensitive data.
- Cybersecurity strategies often aim to fortify defenses to make networks less assailable against potential breaches.
Origin of 'assailable'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French term 'assailir', which means to attack or assail.
- It entered the English language in the 14th century, primarily used in the context of physical attacks or battles.
- The prefix 'as-' relates to the idea of direction, suggesting moving towards something, while '-able' denotes capability.
The word 'assailable' originated from the Latin word 'assail', which means 'to attack'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, 'assailable' has come to be used to describe something that is vulnerable or easily attacked. The word highlights the idea of being open to criticism or attack.
See also: assail, assailant, assailing, assault, unassailable.