Untenable Meaning and Definition
Untenable
Pronunciation
/ʌnˈtiːnəbəl/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Unable to be defended or justified; not capable of being maintained or supported; indefensible.
Examples
1. “The company’s financial situation is untenable, and they are facing bankruptcy.”
2. “The politician’s position on the issue is untenable, and they are facing widespread criticism.”
Synonyms
1. Indefensible
2. Unjustifiable
3. Unsustainable
Antonyms
1. Defensible
2. Justifiable
3. Sustainable
Additional Information
The term “untenable” is often used to describe a situation or position that is no longer viable or sustainable. It can also be used to describe an argument or point of view that is no longer defensible. In a broader sense, “untenable” can also refer to a situation that is unbearable or intolerable.
In a business context, an untenable situation might refer to a company’s financial struggles or a product that is no longer competitive. In a personal context, an untenable situation might refer to a relationship that is no longer sustainable or a living situation that is unbearable.
The term “untenable” is often used in formal or professional settings, such as in business or politics. However, it can also be used in informal settings, such as in everyday conversation or in writing.
Etymology
The word “untenable” comes from the Old French word “tenable,” which means “capable of being held or defended.” The prefix “un-” is added to indicate the opposite, resulting in the word “untenable,” which means “incapable of being held or defended.”
Usage Notes
The word “untenable” is often used in formal or professional settings, such as in business or politics. However, it can also be used in informal settings, such as in everyday conversation or in writing.
When using the word “untenable,” it is often helpful to provide context or explanation to clarify what is meant. For example, “The company’s financial situation is untenable due to their large debt burden.”
Cultural References
The word “untenable” has been used in various cultural references, such as in literature, film, and television. For example, in the novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the character of Tom Buchanan is described as being in an “untenable” situation due to his infidelity and financial troubles.
Idiomatic Expressions
There are several idiomatic expressions that use the word “untenable,” such as “in an untenable position” or “to be in an untenable situation.”
Collocations
Some common collocations with the word “untenable” include “untenable situation,” “untenable position,” and “untenable argument.”
Frequency of Use
The word “untenable” is not a commonly used word in everyday conversation. However, it is often used in formal or professional settings, such as in business or politics.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word “untenable” include “untenible,” “untenable,” and “untenibal.”