untenable / unstoppable
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untenable
Not defensible or justifiable; refers to a position, claim, or argument that cannot be maintained logically or factually.
Nachdem neue Beweise auftauchten, wurde die Theorie des Forschers unhaltbar.
After new evidence emerged, the researcher's theory became untenable.
The word consists of the prefix 'un-' and 'haltbar' (durable; able to be held). 'Haltbar' comes from the verb 'halten' (to hold). 'Unhaltbar' means that something cannot be 'held'—whether it is an argument, a situation, or a ball in sports.
Seine Position in der Firma wurde nach dem Skandal unhaltbar.
His position in the company became untenable after the scandal.
The noun that 'unhaltbar' describes reveals the exact meaning. An 'Argument' (argument) or a 'Theorie' (theory) is illogical. A 'Zustand' (condition) or a 'Situation' (situation) is unbearable. A 'Schuss' (shot) or 'Ball' (ball) is unstoppable in sports.
Seine Behauptung ist wissenschaftlich unhaltbar. (Argument)
His claim is scientifically untenable. (argument)
In the meaning 'not defensible', the word is often used with abstract nouns like 'Argument' (argument), 'Behauptung' (claim), 'Theorie' (theory), or 'Position' (position).
Diese Verschwörungstheorie ist völlig unhaltbar.
This conspiracy theory is completely untenable.
When it is about an intolerable situation, typical combinations are 'unhaltbare Zustände' (intolerable conditions) or 'eine unhaltbare Situation' (an intolerable situation). It often describes social or hygienic grievances.
Die Arbeitsbedingungen in der Fabrik waren unhaltbar.
The working conditions in the factory were intolerable.
This meaning is found almost exclusively in sports, especially in ball sports like football or handball. It describes a shot on goal that is so perfect that the goalkeeper has no chance.
Er traf mit einem unhaltbaren Schuss aus 20 Metern.
He scored with an unstoppable shot from 20 meters.
unbearable
'unerträglich' and 'unhaltbar' can both express that a situation is no longer acceptable. 'unerträglich' emphasizes how strongly something burdens or disturbs you: you can hardly stand it. 'unhaltbar' sounds more objective and often fits when a condition must not continue, or when a claim cannot be defended. For noise, pain, or stress, you are more likely to say 'unerträglich'. For working conditions, situations, decisions, or arguments, 'unhaltbar' sounds more precise.
Die langen Wartezeiten beim Arzt sind für viele Patienten unhaltbar.
The long waiting times at the doctor's office are intolerable for many patients.
Nach drei Stunden ohne Pause wurde die Hitze im Raum unerträglich.
After three hours without a break, the heat in the room became unbearable.