Attackable: meaning, definitions and examples

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attackable

[əˈtækəbəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a combat situation

Capable of being attacked or targeted, especially in a military or combat context.

Synonyms

exposed, susceptible, vulnerable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
attackable	This word is rarely used and may appear awkward in conversation or writing. It's better to use its synonym 'vulnerable' to convey the intended meaning. Not commonly used
vulnerable	Ideal for situations where someone or something is weak or easily hurt, either physically, emotionally, or otherwise. The elderly are vulnerable to scams
exposed	When you want to describe something or someone that is out in the open and unprotected. Usually related to physical, information, or emotional openness. Without a jacket, he felt exposed to the cold wind
susceptible	Best used when discussing the likelihood of being affected by something, often in a negative sense like illness or influence. Young children are particularly susceptible to the flu

Examples of usage

The fortified walls made the castle attackable by enemy forces.
The exposed flank of the army made it more attackable by the enemy troops.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in a digital context

Able to be targeted or exploited by cyber attacks or hacking attempts.

Synonyms

exploitable, susceptible, vulnerable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
attackable	This term is used in specific situations, often in technical or security-related discussions where something can be physically or logically attacked. The network is attackable due to its outdated firewall
vulnerable	This word is suitable for describing a state of being exposed to the possibility of being harmed, either physically, emotionally, or technically. It generally carries a sense of being unprotected or at risk. The elderly are vulnerable to the impacts of cold weather
exploitable	Used primarily in contexts where there is a weakness or flaw that can be taken advantage of, usually in technical, economic, or ethical discussions. This term often has a negative connotation. The software has several exploitable bugs that need to be addressed
susceptible	Best used when referring to someone or something that is easily influenced or affected by a particular condition or set of circumstances. It can apply in various contexts, including health, emotions, and technology. Children are particularly susceptible to these viral infections

Examples of usage

The outdated software is highly attackable by cyber criminals.
The weak password policy makes the system more attackable by hackers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originated from the Old French 'ataquer', which itself comes from the Latin 'attaccare', meaning 'to touch or to fasten'.
It first appeared in English in the late 15th century, originally referring to combat or military action.
The suffix 'able' indicates capability, suggesting that the subject can undergo an action or is susceptible to it.

Psychology

In psychological contexts, feeling 'attackable' can relate to vulnerability, where individuals are exposed to potential emotional harm.
Paranoia can make individuals feel attackable, leading to heightened anxiety about social interactions.
The concept is often discussed in terms of interpersonal relationships, where boundaries help prevent one from feeling 'attackable'.

Technology

Cybersecurity uses the term to describe systems that have vulnerabilities, meaning they can be targeted by hackers.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) often evaluates systems to determine if they are 'attackable' based on their defenses.
In gaming, characters or creatures labeled as 'attackable' can be engaged in combat, enhancing player strategy and experience.

Military

In military strategy, identifying 'attackable' targets is critical for effective planning, ensuring resources are used efficiently.
The principles of warfare often involve assessing enemy positions to determine which are attackable, influencing tactical decisions.
Military exercises often simulate scenarios with both attackable and defensible objectives to test strategies and responses.

Pop Culture

In movies and video games, characters marked as 'attackable' can drive narratives and conflicts, often leading to climactic battles.
The portrayal of 'attackable' villains often takes center stage, providing heroes with challenges to overcome.
The language of 'attackable' has permeated discussing online content, where ideas or individuals can be subjected to criticism or 'attacks'.

Translations

Translations of the word "attackable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atacável

🇮🇳 हमला करने योग्य

🇩🇪 angreifbar

🇮🇩 dapat diserang

🇺🇦 уразливий

🇵🇱 atakowalny

🇯🇵 攻撃可能な

🇫🇷 attaquable

🇪🇸 atacable

🇹🇷 saldırılabilir

🇰🇷 공격 가능한

🇸🇦 قابل للهجوم

🇨🇿 napadnutelný

🇸🇰 napadnuteľný

🇨🇳 可攻击的

🇸🇮 napadljiv

🇮🇸 árásanlegt

🇰🇿 шабуыл жасалатын

🇬🇪 თავდასხმისთვის შესაძლებელი

🇦🇿 hücum edilə bilən

🇲🇽 atacable