untenable

American  

[uhn-ten-uh-buhl] / ʌnˈtɛn ə bəl /

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   A number of exporters have called for the measure to be withdrawn, maintaining it has imposed an untenable strain on their working capital.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

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untenable British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• untenability noun
• untenableness noun
• untenably adverb

Etymology

Origin of untenable

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

Example Sentences

But as more and more visitors came, that proved untenable.

From The Wall Street Journal

"It is untenable to continue so I will be stepping down at the appropriate time to ensure there is an election," said Corlett, who will not be standing again.

From BBC

Ultimately, Maresca's position became untenable and he did not make it to the end of the season, with Rosenior replacing him.

From BBC

The deal would saddle Paramount with more than $60 billion of debt — which Warner board members have argued may be untenable.

From Los Angeles Times

But we must agree that the status quo is untenable.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• illogical
• unsound