# untenable

/ənˈtɛnəbəɫ/ (US) · /ʌntˈɛnəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/untenable
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

impossible to defend or continue because of a serious problem or mistake. You use this to describe a situation, like a job or an argument, that cannot last any longer.

For teachers: incapable of being defended, maintained, or occupied against attack or criticism. Often describes positions, arguments, or professional situations that have become impossible to sustain.

## Examples

- His position at the company became untenable after the scandal.
- The senator's argument was rendered untenable when new evidence proved his initial assumptions were entirely false.
- As the structural integrity of the building continued to fail, the residents found themselves in an untenable living situation that required immediate evacuation by the local authorities.

## Usage notes

- Commonly follows a linking verb like 'become', 'remain', or 'render'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.