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Tenable: meaning, definitions and examples

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tenable

 

[ ˈtɛ.nə.bəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

reasonable argument

Tenable refers to an argument, theory, or position that can be defended or justified; it is reasonable and capable of being maintained. For instance, a tenable claim is one that can withstand scrutiny and is likely to be accepted because it is based on sound reasoning.

Synonyms

defensible, justifiable, maintainable

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer presented a tenable case in court.
  • Her arguments were reasonable and tenable.
  • They reached a tenable agreement after negotiations.
Context #2 | Adjective

sustainability

The term tenable can also describe a situation or state that is viable and sustainable over time. In this context, it reflects conditions that are capable of enduring challenges without failing.

Synonyms

feasible, sustainable, viable

Examples of usage

  • The committee evaluated the tenable options for funding.
  • It’s important to develop tenable solutions to environmental issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "tenable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sustentável

🇮🇳 टिकाऊ

🇩🇪 haltbar

🇮🇩 dapat dipertahankan

🇺🇦 прийнятний

🇵🇱 do przyjęcia

🇯🇵 持続可能な

🇫🇷 durable

🇪🇸 sostenible

🇹🇷 sürdürülebilir

🇰🇷 지속 가능한

🇸🇦 قابل للتحمل

🇨🇿 udržitelný

🇸🇰 udržateľný

🇨🇳 可持续的

🇸🇮 trajnosten

🇮🇸 sjálfbær

🇰🇿 тұрақты

🇬🇪 მდგრადი

🇦🇿 dayanıqlı

🇲🇽 sostenible

Etymology

The word 'tenable' has its roots in the Old French term 'tenable', meaning 'able to be held, maintained, or defended’. It originates from the Latin word 'tenere', which means 'to hold'. The term has been used in English since the late 15th century, primarily in contexts related to arguments, theories, and positions that require justification or defense. Over time, its usage has expanded to encompass various fields, including law, academia, and environmental studies, where maintaining a position or perspective is essential. The evolution of its meaning reflects the importance placed on reasoned discourse and the necessity to support claims with sound reasoning, particularly in intellectual and formal debates.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,623, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.