# susceptibility

/səˌsɛptəˈbɪɫəti/ (US) · /səsˌɛptɪbˈɪlɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/susceptibility
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the state of being easily affected, influenced, or harmed by something. If you have a high susceptibility to a cold, you catch it very easily.

For teachers: the state or fact of being likely or liable to be influenced or harmed by a particular thing. Often describes a lack of resistance to a disease or a tendency to be emotionally affected by external factors.

## Examples

- Her susceptibility to allergies makes spring a difficult season.
- The doctor discussed the patient's genetic susceptibility to heart disease during the annual check-up.
- Researchers are investigating whether certain environmental pollutants increase the susceptibility of local wildlife to viral infections that were previously considered minor threats.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general state of being vulnerable; countable when referring to specific types of vulnerabilities. Often followed by the preposition 'to'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.