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be vulnerable

[/bi ˈvʌlnərəbəl/]
verb phrase
ser vulnerável
1. to be in a state of weakness or exposure to harm, damage, or attack
The city's infrastructure is vulnerable to flooding during heavy rains.
A infraestrutura da cidade é vulnerável a enchentes durante chuvas intensas.
2. to be emotionally exposed or open to hurt
She felt vulnerable sharing her personal story with strangers.
Ela se sentiu vulnerável ao compartilhar sua história pessoal com estranhos.
3. to be susceptible to criticism, attack, or exploitation
New businesses are vulnerable to market competition.
Novos negócios são vulneráveis à concorrência do mercado.
Synonyms
be exposedbe weakbe defenselessbe susceptiblebe at risk
Antonyms
be strongbe protectedbe securebe invulnerablebe safe

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ser vulnerável
most commonly used form in Brazil
São Paulo
estar vulnerável
can use 'estar' to emphasize temporary state
Portugal
ser vulnerável
consistent with European Portuguese usage

Related Idioms & Phrases

have one's guard down
be left exposed
have a chink in one's armor
estar com o pé na lama (Brazilian - to be in a precarious situation)
estar indefeso (Portuguese - to be defenseless)
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