completely indefensible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "completely indefensible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position, argument, or action that cannot be justified or defended in any way. Example: "The evidence presented in the trial was so overwhelming that the defendant's actions were deemed completely indefensible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

AM: I think it's completely indefensible.

The Guardian - Books

"This is morally completely indefensible," said Steve Taylor, a spokesman for the League Against Cruel Sports.

The Guardian

The word "chutzpah" is insufficient to describe how utterly indefensible the Republican position is, intellectually.Furthermore, Republicans have a completely indefensible position on taxes.

The Economist

Another said he generally does not vote for anybody on the first ballot, a completely indefensible position, even if it is rooted in history.

The New York Times - Sports

Bishop's position in defending the travel claim was completely indefensible, both politically and practically – notwithstanding the mildly ambiguous nature of the parliamentary entitlements rules.

The Guardian

"For the Tories to now try to exclude thousands of people in Scotland, and well over a million across the UK, based simply on their nationality is completely indefensible".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

She called his behavior "completely unacceptable and indefensible".

The New York Times

The delay and restrictions so far were completely unacceptable and indefensible," the spokeswoman said.

The Guardian

A judge was told that the publisher of the Daily Mail has accepted the allegations were "completely false and indefensible", published an apology and undertaken not to repeat them.

The Guardian

And in the New Statesman this week, Antony Gormley gives his views on the cuts to arts funding: The idea that somehow art should be cut in the same way as everything is just completely and utterly indefensible.

The Guardian

In December 2013, libel proceedings were launched and the following month the publisher accepted the allegations "were completely false and indefensible", published an apology and agreed to pay substantial damages which the author was donating to charity.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "completely indefensible" to express strong disapproval or condemnation of an action, argument, or position. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize that there is no reasonable defense or justification for something.

Common error

While "completely indefensible" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for a more nuanced expression when the situation does not warrant such a strong condemnation. For example, consider using alternatives such as "difficult to justify" or "hard to defend".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "completely indefensible" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun, describing something as impossible to defend or justify. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts where strong disapproval is expressed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "completely indefensible" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey a strong sense of disapproval and the utter lack of justification for something. According to Ludwig, while the phrase is deemed correct and usable, its frequency is uncommon and it tends to appear predominantly in news and media contexts. Alternatives like "utterly unjustifiable" or "totally inexcusable" may be considered depending on the nuance and formality of the situation. When using the phrase, it's important to consider the context and avoid overuse in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absolutely unjustifiable

Similar to "completely indefensible" but using "absolutely" for emphasis.

utterly unjustifiable

Focuses on the lack of justification.

totally inexcusable

Highlights the absence of any excuse for the action or position.

entirely untenable

Stresses that the position cannot be held or defended.

plainly unjustifiable

Highlights the clear and obvious lack of justification.

patently indefensible

Highlights the obviousness of something's indefensibility.

manifestly indefensible

Similar to 'patently indefensible' but using 'manifestly'.

wholly unsustainable

Emphasizes the impossibility of maintaining or defending the situation.

beyond justification

Focuses on the impossibility of finding any justification.

indefensible without question

Emphasizes the indisputable nature of the indefensibility.

FAQs

How can I use "completely indefensible" in a sentence?

You can use "completely indefensible" to describe actions, arguments, or positions that lack any possible justification. For example, "His decision to abandon the project was "utterly unjustifiable" and "completely indefensible"."

What are some alternatives to "completely indefensible"?

Alternatives include "utterly unjustifiable", "totally inexcusable", or "entirely untenable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "completely indefensible" a formal or informal expression?

"Completely indefensible" leans towards formal usage. In less formal contexts, consider using phrases like "really hard to defend" or "impossible to justify".

Which is correct, "indefensible" or "completely indefensible"?

Both "indefensible" and "completely indefensible" are grammatically correct. Adding "completely" intensifies the meaning, emphasizing the total lack of justification. Using just "indefensible" implies a lack of justification without necessarily being absolute.