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   A number of exporters have called for the measure to be withdrawn, maintaining it has imposed an untenable strain on their working capital.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

Other Word Forms

• untenability noun
• untenableness noun
• untenably adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of untenable¹

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

Example Sentences

The company argues that union demands are untenable, with the company already offering competitive pay and benefits.

From Los Angeles Times

Given the parliamentary business minister has a fairly key role in engaging with opposition parties, Hepburn's position was simply untenable.

From BBC

It left Selles' position untenable and he was removed from his position on Sunday morning, with a club statement saying the decision had been made following a "disappointing start" to the campaign.

From BBC

“The recent shift in the Kennedy Center’s ideology and board leadership has made it untenable for a production like ‘Hamilton’ to celebrate and be celebrated there today.”

From Los Angeles Times

To give in on the final day sets a potential precedent - this is a player who had three years left on his contract - but the situation felt increasingly untenable.

From BBC

Related Words

• illogical 
• unsound