Vulnerably: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a situation or state where a person or thing is open to emotional or physical harm. It often carries an emotional or delicate connotation.

• She spoke vulnerably about her past experiences.
• The puppy approached the stranger vulnerably, hoping for kindness.

Typically implies a manner of acting without concealment, hiding, or restriction. It is often used in social or verbal contexts and can be neutral or positive.

• She openly discussed her plans for the future.
• The politician openly admitted his mistakes.

Describes a condition where there is no protection from harm or danger, often used in a physical context but can also apply to other scenarios.

• The documents were left unprotected on the desk.
• Children should never be left unprotected in harsh weather conditions.

Indicates something that is not covered or shielded and is thus at risk of harm or criticism. It is broader and can apply to physical, emotional, or situational exposure.

• The financial scandal exposed the company's vulnerabilities.
• He felt exposed standing on the stage in front of so many people.

Refers to a state where a person or thing has no means of protection or defense, often highlighting a critical and negative situation.

• The soldiers found themselves defenselessly surrounded by the enemy.
• The young bird lay defenselessly on the ground after falling from its nest.

Use this word when someone is exposed to harm, attacks, or emotional damage. It often implies an openness or defenselessness.

• She spoke vulnerably about her past experiences
• The castle was built vulnerably close to the sea

Use this word when someone can easily be influenced or swayed by others. This does not necessarily have a negative connotation.

• Young children are often influenceably by their peers
• The committee members were influenceably persuaded by the convincing argument

Use this word when someone can be controlled or influenced in a cunning way. This word has a negative connotation.

• He was manipulably led to sign the unfair contract
• The company manipulated the data manipulably to show better results

Use this word when someone or something is likely to be affected or harmed by a particular thing. It can be used for both physical and emotional contexts.

• She is susceptibly prone to colds during the winter
• The crops are susceptibly affected by the frost

Use this word when talking about someone who is easily deceived or who believes things too readily. This word has a negative connotation.

• He gullibly believed the prank call
• She gullibly gave her bank details to the scammer