a tenable position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tenable position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a viewpoint or stance that is defensible or reasonable in a debate or argument. Example: "The researcher presented a tenable position on climate change that was supported by extensive data and analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"This isn't a tenable position for you to take, in my view," Mr. Carnes wrote.

The New York Times

But, he says, acceptance by society of atheism as a tenable position is growing.

The Economist

That's a tenable position, but it's politically dicey — particularly for Republicans, since the elderly are among their biggest supporters.

The New Yorker

But he still had a tenable position until he played 21... f5; 21... g6 would have been better.

The New York Times

He added: "If that's the case, let me suggest that 'fuck you, Jack, I'm okay' is not a tenable position, morally speaking".

The Guardian - Books

"Our response was, 'Hang on a minute, you don't want the financial obligation of regional news but you still want branding control and control of advertising?' Is that a tenable position?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

But that is increasingly becoming a less tenable position.

The New York Times

Still, the Pentagon's two-sided stance is not a terribly tenable position and requires much papering over.

The New York Times

It may sound fanciful to most Democrats, but thus far it's proven to be a pretty tenable position politically, and there's really no pressing reason for Republicans to abandon it.

The New York Times

As the advance inland stalled, the battalion became isolated and threatened with destruction until Cannan withdrew his force to a more tenable position.

Wikipedia

"On the other hand, I never thought that was quite a tenable situation".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tenable position", ensure that you can provide clear and logical reasoning to support the viewpoint you're describing. This phrase implies that the position is not just an opinion, but one that can be defended with evidence or sound arguments.

Common error

Avoid using "a tenable position" to describe a viewpoint that is based purely on speculation or unsubstantiated claims. The term suggests a degree of solidity and defensibility that may not be present if the position lacks factual support.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tenable position" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object or subject complement in a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It describes a viewpoint or stance that can be defended with logic or evidence, as shown in the examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academic

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tenable position" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a viewpoint or argument that is defensible and justifiable. According to Ludwig, it is suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in news media and science. When using the phrase, ensure that the position you are describing is supported by evidence or logical reasoning. Consider alternatives such as "a defensible stance" or "a viable viewpoint" to add variety to your writing. The phrase's frequency and clear meaning make it a valuable addition to a writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a defensible stance

Replaces "tenable" with "defensible", emphasizing the ability to justify or protect the position.

a viable viewpoint

Substitutes "tenable" with "viable", highlighting the practicality and workability of the viewpoint.

a sustainable argument

Replaces "tenable" with "sustainable", emphasizing the argument's ability to hold up over time.

a justifiable position

Replaces "tenable" with "justifiable", focusing on the moral or rational basis of the position.

a reasonable standpoint

Substitutes "tenable" with "reasonable", emphasizing the logical and rational nature of the standpoint.

a supportable claim

Replaces "position" with "claim" and "tenable" with "supportable", suggesting the availability of evidence.

a credible argument

Replaces "tenable" with "credible", emphasizing the believability and trustworthiness of the argument.

a sound position

Replaces "tenable" with "sound", highlighting the solidity and strength of the position.

a well-founded argument

Replaces "tenable" with "well-founded", highlighting that the argument is based on solid evidence.

a maintainable stance

Replaces "tenable" with "maintainable", emphasizing the ability to keep the stance without contradictions.

FAQs

What does "a tenable position" mean?

"A tenable position" refers to a viewpoint or argument that is defensible, justifiable, or able to be maintained against opposition. It implies the existence of supporting evidence or logical reasoning.

How can I use "a tenable position" in a sentence?

You can use "a tenable position" to describe a viewpoint that is supported by evidence. For example, "The researcher presented "a tenable position" on climate change that was supported by extensive data and analysis."

What can I say instead of "a tenable position"?

You can use alternatives like "a defensible stance", "a viable viewpoint", or "a justifiable position" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to describe something as "a tenable position"?

It's appropriate when the viewpoint or argument has a logical basis, supporting evidence, and can withstand scrutiny. It's not appropriate for unsubstantiated opinions or claims.