Words / C2

un-TEN-uh-bl/ʌnˈtenəbl/

Untenable means impossible to defend or to carry on with: an untenable claim, an untenable position. Tenable (this batch) is the positive. Indefensible is a close cousin; unsustainable is about resources or pace. Do not call a tight budget untenable if it is merely uncomfortable.

Meaning

Impossible to defend or to continue with.

Examples

• “After the emails, the official line was untenable.”
• “Once the emails were public, the official line was untenable.”
• “An untenable timetable cannot be staffed; an unpopular one still runs.”

Good to know

Cannot be defended or continued. Opposite: tenable. Close: indefensible. Resources cousin: unsustainable. Not merely unpopular.

Near in meaning

indefensible

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