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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective susceptible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of susceptible are exposed, liable, open, prone, sensitive, and subject. While all these words mean "being by nature or through circumstances likely to experience something adverse," susceptible implies conditions existing in one's nature or individual constitution that make incurrence probable.

very susceptible to flattery

When might exposed be a better fit than susceptible?

While in some cases nearly identical to susceptible, exposed suggests lack of protection or powers of resistance against something actually present or threatening.

exposed to infection

When can liable be used instead of susceptible?

Although the words liable and susceptible have much in common, liable implies a possibility or probability of incurring something because of position, nature, or particular situation.

liable to get lost

When could open be used to replace susceptible?

In some situations, the words open and susceptible are roughly equivalent. However, open stresses a lack of barriers preventing incurrence.

a claim open to question

When would prone be a good substitute for susceptible?

The words prone and susceptible are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, prone stresses natural tendency or propensity to incur something.

prone to delay

In what contexts can sensitive take the place of susceptible?

While the synonyms sensitive and susceptible are close in meaning, sensitive implies a readiness to respond to or be influenced by forces or stimuli.

unduly sensitive to criticism

Where would subject be a reasonable alternative to susceptible?

The meanings of subject and susceptible largely overlap; however, subject implies an openness for any reason to something that must be suffered or undergone.

all reports are subject to review

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of susceptible Overhead power lines—called catenary wires—are especially susceptible to temperature swings. Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 June 2025 Katya Campbell plays Carol, the first of Diane’s encounters and the one who’s the least susceptible to her charms, with prime micromanagement vibes. Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 17 June 2025 Mold can show up anywhere in your home, but there are a few places that are particularly susceptible to it. Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 13 June 2025 Parents and pregnant women, who are on the list of exemptions, could be susceptible to losing coverage without proper documentation, according to the nonpartisan research and policy institute. Lorie Konish, CNBC, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for susceptible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for susceptible
Adjective
  • These offenders swarm these vulnerable victims, usually Asian, older females.
    Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 4 July 2025
  • Along the way, Manuel opened a small nonprofit to supply basic needs for Native foster kids that grew into a statewide cultural support service for the most vulnerable youth.
    Debra Utacia Krol, AZCentral.com, 4 July 2025
Adjective
  • But most unforgettable are the fantastic driving sequences and the almost casually riveting performances — with James Taylor making for a perfectly intense (and surprisingly charismatic) lead, an ideal foil for the garrulous, slightly helpless Oates.
    Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 27 June 2025
  • The emotional emptiness can feel unbearable, and the practical demands only add to the turmoil, often leaving the surviving spouse feeling lost and helpless.
    David Kudla, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • Completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869 made immigration into California and shipping produce out of the state much easier.
    Dan Walters, Mercury News, 25 June 2025
  • The attitude at the palace is that leaders who like the royal family are generally easy to host, and Trump's team hold the British Monarchy in high regard.
    Jack Royston, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025
Adjective
  • This usually involves receiving a fake text, email or even a phone call designed to trick you into clicking a malicious link or sharing sensitive information.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2025
  • The thundering crackles and sharp bangs of pyrotechnics can not only frighten dogs but also cause discomfort to their sensitive ears.
    Logan Holland, People.com, 4 July 2025
Adjective
  • New Orleans acquired the rights to the pick from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for the No. 23 pick and an unprotected 2026 first-round pick, according to ESPN.
    Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2025
  • The real head-scratcher came Wednesday night when New Orleans traded up from No. 23 to No. 13 with the Atlanta Hawks to take Maryland big man Derik Queen — and gave up a 2026 unprotected first-round pick in the process.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • Enjoy 360-degree airflow that gently surrounds your neck — no exposed blades, just cool comfort from every angle.
    Toni Sutton, People.com, 28 June 2025
  • In exposed areas, the plants may need some staking.
    Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Modern takes on the tankini and boy short offer nostalgia without being too naive and are also seen from Candice Swaenpoel’s Topic of C line or Hunza G’s colorful styles.
    Emily Mercer, Footwear News, 27 June 2025
  • Yet such arguments are either geopolitically naive or disingenuous.
    Charles Kupchan, Foreign Affairs, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • These destinations are prone to extreme weather, such as hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones, which can disrupt daily life and damage infrastructure.
    Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
  • The heat and nutrients can make the sea grass more prone to disease according to the Fish and Wildlife Conservancy.
    Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 30 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Susceptible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/susceptible. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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