Tip 25. Word choice: liable, prone, or susceptible?
Only ONE word fits ALL THREE sentences. Which is it?
1. Laws that ensure transparency in public procurement are important because this is an area of the economy that is .................... to corruption.
2. It would not be wise to build in this area; because it is so close to the river, it is .................... to flooding after heavy rain.
3. I avoid trying new sports because I'm so accident-....................; whatever I try, I end up breaking something.
Wrong answer, try again!
Correct answer!
Comment:
In sentences 1 and 2, all three options are correct and mean 'have a tendency'.
We describe someone as 'accident-prone' when they seem to have more accidents than other people.
Other examples:
- Doctors report that there is evidence to suggest that only the under-50's are ...susceptible to swine flu / ... prone to catching swine flu.
- I liked my old car very much, but I had to replace it as it was liable to break down when I needed it most.
Wrong answer, try again!
