Vulnerability

Meaning

The state of being exposed to the possibility of being harmed, physically, socially, economically, or environmentally

Origin / Etymology

Latin vulnerabilis, capable of being wounded (vulnus = wound)

Synonyms

Susceptibility Exposure Fragility Precariousness

Antonyms

Resilience Robustness Security

Example Sentence

"India's energy vulnerability stems from its 85% dependence on crude oil imports, concentrated in geopolitically unstable regions."

🎯 UPSC Usage

Cross-cutting word for climate vulnerability (GS-3), financial vulnerability (banking NPA crisis), food security vulnerability, cybersecurity, and coastal communities. Strong substitute for vague phrases like 'at risk' or 'in danger'. Use 'heightened vulnerability' or 'structural vulnerability' for sharper framing.

Relevant Subjects

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