Undefendable vs. Indefensible — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 1, 2024
"Undefendable" and "indefensible" both describe something that cannot be justified or defended; however, "indefensible" is the more common term in both legal and general usage.
Difference Between Undefendable and Indefensible
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Undefendable" is occasionally used to describe a position, argument, or action that cannot be defended or justified. On the other hand, "indefensible" is the preferred and more frequently used term in English to express the same concept, especially in formal and legal contexts.
While "undefendable" might appear in casual speech or less formal writing, "indefensible" is more likely to be found in academic, professional, or legal discussions. This makes "indefensible" a stronger, more impactful choice when criticizing actions or arguments.
The nuances of connotation between "undefendable" and "indefensible" can be subtle, with "indefensible" often carrying a heavier weight of moral or ethical condemnation. Whereas, "undefendable" might simply imply a lack of support or justification without the strong moral implication.
In literature and media, "indefensible" is used to describe actions or situations that are beyond justification, often invoking a sense of outrage or disbelief. "Undefendable," while still understandable, is less likely to be used in such contexts due to its less conventional nature.
Despite their differences in usage frequency and context, both terms function effectively when the intention is to critique something strongly. The choice between them may depend on the desired tone, with "indefensible" providing a more formally recognized expression of censure.
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Comparison Chart
Commonality of Use
Less common
More common
Context
Informal, general
Formal, legal, ethical
Connotation
Lack of justification
Moral or ethical condemnation
Usage in Literature
Less frequent
More frequent
Impact
Moderate
Stronger
Compare with Definitions
Undefendable
Not justifiable; not able to be defended.
The decision was quickly criticized as undefendable.
Indefensible
Implies a violation of ethical standards.
The policy was criticized as morally indefensible.
Undefendable
Generally understood but less preferred.
While understood, undefendable is less preferred than indefensible in academic writing.
Indefensible
Impossible to defend, especially morally.
The act was widely condemned as indefensible.
Undefendable
Lacking support or viability.
His argument was undefendable in the face of clear evidence.
Indefensible
Strongly negative implication.
Labeling the policy as indefensible sparked a heated debate.
Undefendable
Rarely used in formal contexts.
The term undefendable is less common in legal documents.
Indefensible
Used in contexts requiring strong ethical judgments.
His actions were deemed indefensible by the community.
Undefendable
May relate to strategic positions in sports or military contexts.
The team's position was undefendable against such a strong offense.
Indefensible
Common in legal and formal discussions.
The lawyer admitted that the case was indefensible.
Undefendable
Not capable of being defended
Indefensible
Inexcusable; unpardonable
Indefensible behavior.
Undefendable
Not defended or capable of being defended;
An open city
Open to attack
Indefensible
Invalid; untenable
An indefensible assumption.
Indefensible
Vulnerable to physical attack
Indefensible borders.
Indefensible
Not defensible; not capable of being defended
Indefensible
Incapable of being justified or excused
Indefensible
Incapable of being explained
Indefensible
Not defensible; not capable of being defended, maintained, vindicated, or justified; unjustifiable; untenable; as, an indefensible fortress, position, cause, statement, etc.
Men find that something can be said in favor of what, on the very proposal, they thought utterly indefensible.
Indefensible
(of theories etc) incapable of being defended or justified
Indefensible
Incapable of being justified or explained
Common Curiosities
Which term should I use in a formal argument?
"Indefensible" is recommended for formal arguments due to its frequent use and stronger impact.
Can a physical location be described as undefendable or indefensible?
Yes, in military or strategic contexts, a location can be described as undefendable or indefensible if it cannot be effectively defended.
How does the use of these terms affect the tone of criticism?
Using "indefensible" tends to convey a more serious and ethically charged criticism compared to "undefendable".
Is "undefendable" recognized in legal dictionaries?
"Indefensible" is more commonly recognized and used in legal contexts than "undefendable".
What impact does using "indefensible" have in academic writing?
In academic writing, using "indefensible" adds a level of seriousness and critique based on ethical or rational grounds.
How do media outlets use these terms in reporting?
Media outlets prefer "indefensible" for its authoritative tone in reporting scandals or unjust actions.
What makes an action indefensible or undefendable?
An action is considered indefensible or undefendable when it lacks moral, ethical, or rational justification.
Are "undefendable" and "indefensible" interchangeable?
While they can be used interchangeably in many contexts, "indefensible" is preferred for its stronger connotation and commonality.
What are the implications of describing a policy as indefensible?
Describing a policy as indefensible implies it violates ethical norms or cannot be justified under scrutiny.
Are there synonyms for indefensible that might convey a similar meaning?
Terms like "unjustifiable" or "unwarrantable" are similar in meaning and can be used as synonyms.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
