Vulnerability: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe a state where someone or something is open to being hurt or attacked, either physically or emotionally. It is frequently utilized in discussions about personal feelings, cybersecurity, or physical structures.

• Her vulnerability made her more empathetic
• The security system has a vulnerability that hackers can exploit

Weakness refers to a lack of strength, power, or effectiveness. It can describe physical, emotional, intellectual, or strategic situations. It often carries a negative connotation.

• His injury caused a lot of physical weakness
• One of the weaknesses of the plan is its cost

Exposure is typically used to describe the condition of being subjected to something harmful or unpleasant, such as weather conditions, radiation, or public scrutiny. It often implies being unprotected or publicly revealed.

• Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause skin damage
• The company's illegal activities were brought to light after media exposure

This word is often used to discuss the likelihood of being affected by something, especially diseases, stress, or influence. It commonly appears in medical, psychological, and environmental contexts.

• Children have a higher susceptibility to infections
• His susceptibility to stress made his job very challenging

Use when referring to exposure to harm, either physically or emotionally, and often suggests a need for protection or care.

• Her vulnerability made it difficult for her to trust others.
• The company's vulnerability to cyber-attacks has been a major concern.

Refers to the ability to perceive or respond to slight changes, signals, or influences, and can apply to emotional receptivity or physical responses.

• His sensitivity to criticism often led to misunderstandings.
• The sensitivity of the motion sensor ensures high security.

Best suited to describe a physical state that is delicate and easily broken or damaged, as well as metaphorically for emotional or structural weaknesses.

• The fragility of the glass vase means it must be handled carefully.
• After the accident, he was aware of the fragility of life.

Describes a state of being open to new ideas, experiences, or being transparent in communication. Lacks the negative connotation of weakness.

• Her openness to feedback made her a great team leader.
• The openness of the management's approach created a positive work environment.

This word is often used to describe a state where someone or something is open to harm or attack, both physical and emotional. It is commonly used in discussions about human emotions, cybersecurity, or health.

• Her vulnerability made it difficult for her to trust others.
• The software vulnerability was quickly patched by the developers.

This term is frequently used in scenarios where someone or something is put in a situation where they are unprotected or subjected to something harmful, like weather, radiation, or public scrutiny.

• Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause skin damage.
• His exposure to the public eye has made him very cautious.

This word is used to describe something that is easily broken or damaged, often in a physical sense but sometimes metaphorically with respect to human emotions. It suggests a delicate state.

• The fragility of the ancient vase made it difficult to transport.
• After her loss, she felt an overwhelming sense of emotional fragility.

This term is often used to discuss the likelihood of being affected by a particular condition or influence, such as diseases, infections, or propaganda. It implies a predisposition to certain outcomes.

• His susceptibility to cold made winters especially difficult.
• She was aware of her susceptibility to peer pressure.