“Untenable” means a situation, argument, or position that cannot be defended, justified, or continued, usually because it is too weak, too flawed, or too difficult to maintain.

Core meaning

  • In formal English, “untenable” describes a theory, claim, or position that cannot stand up to criticism or attack.
  • It can also describe a situation that has become so difficult or unstable that it cannot continue as it is.

Simple examples

  • “His argument became untenable once the new evidence was revealed.”
  • “After the scandal, her job was in an untenable position.”
  • “Living in that damaged building was untenable.”

Everyday sense

In everyday terms, if something is “untenable,” it’s so weak, unreasonable, or impractical that you can’t realistically keep supporting it or living with it, especially once people start questioning it.