untenable

[ uhn-ten-uh-buhl ]

adjective

1. (of an argument, thesis, strategy, etc.) incapable of being defended; indefensible:

   I do not regard atheism as an untenable stance toward the world.

2. (of a situation or condition) incapable of being sustained or maintained over time:

   A number of exporters have called for the measure to be withdrawn, maintaining it has imposed an untenable strain on their working capital.

   Synonyms: questionable, weak, unsound, groundless, baseless

3. not fit to be occupied, as an apartment, house, etc.

untenable

/ ʌnˈtɛnəbəl /

adjective

1. (of theories, propositions, etc) incapable of being maintained, defended, or vindicated
2. unable to be maintained against attack
3. rare.
   (of a house, etc) unfit for occupation

Derived Forms

• unˈtenably, adverb
• unˌtenaˈbility, noun

Other Words From

• un·ten·a·bil·i·ty [uhn-ten-, uh, -, bil, -i-tee], un·ten·a·ble·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of untenable¹

First recorded in 1640–50; un- ¹ + tenable

Example Sentences

With the stakes so incredibly high for democracy this election, though, sitting on the sidelines felt untenable.

From Salon

"Life is becoming ever more untenable in northern Gaza, there is no food at all," he said.

From BBC

Senior Plaid figures have told BBC Wales that the leader's original comments on Thursday about Foden had made his position untenable.

From BBC

"Given this total lack of engagement, we believe the status quo to be an untenable position for Frasers and the other minority holders of Mulberry shares," it said.

From BBC

“Budget cuts made supporting the facility and its staff untenable,” according to the history, “and as a result, the nursery fell into great disrepair.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• illogical
• unsound