Describes behavior, a condition, or a situation that is so bad that it can no longer be accepted or tolerated.
example
Sein ständiges Zuspätkommen ist für das Team untragbar geworden.
His constant lateness has become unacceptable for the team.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word consists of 'un-' and 'tragbar' (bearable/wearable). 'Tragbar' is derived from the verb 'tragen', which can mean both 'to wear clothing' and 'to bear a burden'. 'Untragbar' can therefore refer to both: something that cannot be worn (clothing) or a situation that cannot be tolerated.
EXAMPLE
Seine Arroganz ist für mich untragbar.
His arrogance is unacceptable to me.
Sentence structure with 'für'
If you want to say for whom a situation or condition is no longer acceptable, you use the preposition 'für' with the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Die Arbeitsbedingungen in dieser Firma sind für die Mitarbeiter untragbar.
The working conditions in this company are unacceptable for the employees.
Typical collocations
In its figurative meaning, 'untragbar' (unacceptable) is often used to describe a condition, behavior, or situation that can no longer be tolerated.
EXAMPLE
Der Lärm von der Baustelle ist zu einem untragbaren Zustand geworden.
The noise from the construction site has become an unacceptable situation.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
untragbar vs unerträglich
unbearable
'unerträglich' and 'untragbar' both describe something very negative. 'unerträglich' emphasizes that you can hardly endure something, for example noise, pain, heat, or an annoying person. 'untragbar' more often means that a behavior, situation, or condition can no longer be accepted. It is often used in a more factual or official way, for example with problems at work, high costs, or completely inappropriate clothing. Learners may confuse the words because both express a limit. As a simple guide: 'unerträglich' asks: Can I still endure this? 'untragbar' asks: Can this still be accepted?
untragbar
Die ständigen Verspätungen des Teams sind für den Kunden untragbar geworden.
The team's constant delays have become unacceptable for the client.
unerträglich
Beim Einkaufen wurde der Lärm in der Halle für sie unerträglich.
While shopping, the noise in the hall became unbearable for her.