susceptible
Definitions
Likely to be affected, harmed, or influenced by something
易受影响的；易感的；易受……侵害的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedsus- (a form of sub-, 'up from under') + cept (a form of capere, 'to take') + -ible (able to) = 'able to take up / take on.' Someone susceptible is ready to 'take in' whatever comes — an infection, an influence, a bribe. The idea is an open door: it receives easily, for better or (usually) worse. Almost always followed by 'to': susceptible to colds, susceptible to flattery.
Root cap still carries 163 more wordsUsage Guide
- Almost always used with 'to': susceptible TO infection / TO influence (not 'susceptible of' in everyday use)
- Health/medicine: susceptible to disease — at higher risk
- Character: susceptible to pressure / flattery — easily swayed
- Note: 'susceptible of' exists only in very formal logic ('susceptible of proof' = capable of being proved), and is rare in ordinary English
Example Sentences
- 1.
Young children are especially susceptible to ear infections.
- 2.
He is susceptible to flattery from his colleagues.