is untenable

USAGE SUMMARY

"is untenable" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to indicate that a position or argument is not sustainable or able to be defended. For example: "John's argument that his actions were not wrong is untenable; his behavior was clearly not appropriate in this situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is untenable.

The New York Times

That position is untenable.

The New York Times

This disparity is untenable.

The Guardian - Opinion

This view is untenable.

Trends in Neurosciences

The objection is untenable.

Cornell University

Their position is untenable.

The Guardian

That is untenable.

The New York Times

Today that reply is untenable.

The Economist

This objection also is untenable.

Cornell University

The status quo is untenable.

The New York Times

In reality his position is untenable.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is untenable", ensure that the context clearly indicates why the subject in question is unsustainable or indefensible. Providing specific reasons strengthens the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "is untenable" for minor inconveniences or disagreements. The phrase carries significant weight and should be reserved for situations that are truly unsustainable or indefensible, otherwise it may sound exaggerated or inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is untenable" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject and asserting that it cannot be defended or maintained. Ludwig AI confirms the correct grammatical use of this construction. It often appears when evaluating arguments, policies, or situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

18%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is untenable" is a versatile phrase used to express that something cannot be defended, maintained, or continued. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in formal contexts. Its frequency is high in news, academic, and scientific writing. The phrase functions as a predicate adjective, serving to critically assess arguments or situations. When using this phrase, it's important to provide clear reasons why something is unsustainable to maximize its impact and avoid exaggeration. Related phrases like ""is indefensible"" or ""cannot be maintained"" can be used as alternatives, depending on the specific nuances you want to convey. Top authoritative sources that employ the phrase include The New York Times, The Guardian, and BBC.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is indefensible

Emphasizes the lack of justification or defense for something.

is impossible to justify

Stresses the inability to provide a valid reason or excuse.

is insupportable

Indicates the lack of evidence or reasons to support something.

is beyond justification

Implies that something is so wrong that it cannot be defended.

cannot be maintained

Focuses on the inability to continue or support something.

is unsustainable

Highlights the inability to continue without negative consequences.

is unacceptable

Focuses on the unsuitability or inappropriateness of something.

lacks foundation

Emphasizes that something is without any support or basis.

is not viable

Stresses the impracticality or infeasibility of something.

is groundless

Highlights the lack of a solid foundation or basis.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "is untenable"?

When something "is untenable", it means it cannot be defended, maintained, or continued. It implies that the position, argument, or situation is unsustainable or impossible to support.

What are some alternatives to saying "is untenable"?

Alternatives include "is unsustainable", "is indefensible", or "cannot be maintained". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "is untenable" in formal writing?

Yes, "is untenable" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic, professional, or journalistic contexts. It is a clear and precise way to express that something is unsustainable or indefensible.

How to effectively use "is untenable" in a sentence?

To effectively use "is untenable", clearly state what you are describing as untenable and provide the reasons why it cannot be maintained or defended. For example: "The company's current financial strategy "is unsustainable" given its mounting debt and declining revenue."