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Tenable Definition, Examples, and Usage Guide (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：logically defensible (tenable)
tenable
/ˈtɛnəbəl/
adj.
Able to be believed, supported, or defended because it is logical and well-reasoned.
logically defensible
➕
/ˈlɒdʒɪkli dɪˈfɛnsəbəl/
adj.
Describes an argument, theory, or position that is logical and reasonable enough to be believed, supported, or defended against criticism.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'tenere' (to hold) + '-able', meaning capable of being held or maintained.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'ten' + 'able' — you can hold onto ten reasons to defend your idea.
📖 Example
After the professor's thorough explanation, his controversial theory on climate change seemed surprisingly tenable.
After the professor's thorough explanation, his controversial theory on climate change seemed surprisingly tenable.
🔗 Collocations
tenable argument – a logical and well-supported argument
tenable position – a position that can be defended rationally
tenable theory – a theory that withstands scrutiny
🔄 Synonyms
defensible (adj.) – capable of being defended or justified
plausible (adj.) – seeming reasonable or probable
justifiable (adj.) – able to be shown to be right or reasonable
🚫 Antonyms
untenable (adj.) – not able to be maintained or defended
indefensible (adj.) – impossible to justify or excuse
illogical (adj.) – lacking sense or clear reasoning
🌱 Derivatives
tenability (n.) – the quality of being tenable
untenable (adj.) – not tenable
📖 Cultural Story
Stems from Latin 'tenere' (to hold). In medieval law, a 'tenable' argument could be held up in court. Today used in academic and professional settings to describe logically defensible positions.
Meaning 2：sustainable to hold (tenable)
tenable
/ˈtɛnəbəl/
adj.
Able to be held or maintained for a reasonable amount of time, especially a job or position.
sustainable to hold
➕
/səˈsteɪnəbəl tə hoʊld/
adj.
Describes a situation, job, or position that can be maintained or held for a reasonable period without collapsing.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
He was offered the manager's role, but without adequate training and support, he feared it wouldn't be a tenable situation for long.
He was offered the manager's role, but without adequate training and support, he feared it wouldn't be a tenable situation for long.
🔗 Collocations
tenable position – a job or role that can be kept for a reasonable time
tenable situation – a set of circumstances that can last without breakdown
remain tenable – to continue to be maintainable
🔄 Synonyms
sustainable (adj.) – able to be maintained at a certain level
viable (adj.) – capable of working successfully
feasible (adj.) – possible and practical to do easily
🚫 Antonyms
untenable (adj.) – impossible to continue or defend
unsustainable (adj.) – not able to be maintained
unworkable (adj.) – impractical or impossible to implement
🌱 Derivatives
tenability (n.) – the state of being maintainable
untenable (adj.) – not able to be held
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