it is indefensible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is indefensible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when stating that something cannot be justified or defended, often in a moral or logical context. Example: "The actions taken by the organization were so unethical that it is indefensible to support them any longer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

The evidence of harm is overwhelming and for a country that takes pride in safeguarding its children, it is indefensible, and frankly shameful, to force a small group of them into detention where their welfare is known to be at risk.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Islamically, it is indefensible that all Malays should have to be Muslims," he told me.

The New Yorker

"The fact that they currently do is wrong; it is dangerous; it is indefensible".

The New York Times

A second reason, he said, was that it is indefensible not to try.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It is indefensible to claim it's the fault of the children," Mr. Levy said.

The New York Times

It is indefensible — a traitor or a fool might equally act as he does and he is not a traitor".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"It's indefensible, regardless of the context.

The Guardian - Sport

Important though Tal Abyad was to Isis, it did not commit many fighters to holding the town, having apparently decided that it was indefensible.

Independent

I was determined that the individual books should stand alone – it's indefensible, aesthetically, for it be just one huge book chopped into three.

The Guardian - Books

"Right now it's indefensible to have upstate communities that don't have our problems getting more state aid per pupil," Mr. Levy said.

The New York Times

It's indefensible.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is indefensible", ensure that the context clearly establishes what action or idea is being criticized. Strong, specific language will reinforce your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "it is indefensible" in situations where the subject is merely disagreeable rather than morally or logically wrong. Reserve it for scenarios that warrant strong condemnation to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is indefensible" functions as a strong declarative statement. It asserts that something is utterly unjustifiable and cannot be defended, often carrying a moral or ethical judgment. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is indefensible" is a potent phrase used to express strong condemnation and the lack of justification for something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure that your argument is well-supported and that the context warrants such a strong statement. Alternatives like "it is unjustifiable" or "it is unacceptable" may be more suitable for less severe situations. While versatile, its impactful nature demands careful consideration to maintain its effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is unjustifiable

Emphasizes the lack of justification for something.

it is inexcusable

Highlights that there is no acceptable excuse for something.

it is unpardonable

Stresses that something cannot be forgiven.

it is unacceptable

Indicates that something does not meet required standards.

it is untenable

Suggests the position or action is not sustainable or maintainable.

it is beyond justification

Highlights the complete lack of any possible justification.

it cannot be defended

Directly states the inability to defend something.

it is without excuse

Similar to inexcusable, emphasizing the lack of valid excuse.

there's no defense for it

An informal way to express the lack of defensibility.

it is indefensible behavior

Specifically characterizes the action as indefensible, adding a label.

FAQs

How can I use "it is indefensible" in a sentence?

Use "it is indefensible" to express strong disapproval or condemnation of something that lacks justification. For example, "It is indefensible to ignore the plight of the homeless." or "It is indefensible that the company continues to pollute the river."

What phrases are similar to "it is indefensible"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it is unjustifiable", "it is inexcusable", or "it is unacceptable", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it is indefensible" a formal or informal expression?

"It is indefensible" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it carries a strong tone that should be used judiciously. While appropriate for news articles or academic discussions, be mindful of the impact in more casual conversations.

What makes something 'indefensible'?

Something is 'indefensible' when it cannot be justified, excused, or defended due to ethical, moral, or logical reasons. The act or decision usually violates accepted standards of conduct or reasoning.