“Defendable” vs. “Defensible”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “defendable” and “defensible”

  • "Defendable" and "defensible" generally mean the same thing and can be used interchangeably in most contexts.
  • Both words describe something that can be defended or protected against attack, criticism, or objection.
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What is the definition of “defendable” and “defensible”?

Defendable
  • Capable of being defended or protected.
  • Able to withstand criticism or attack.
Defensible
  • Capable of being defended or justified.
  • Able to be argued as reasonable or fair.
  • Consistent with accepted principles or norms.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Defensible” is the more popular variant on the web.
Defendable
1,730,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The evidence provided by the defendant was defendable enough to sway the jury's verdict.
  2. The company's decision to lay off employees was defendable given their current financial situation.
  3. Her argument was strong and defendable, but the opposing team still managed to win the debate.
More popular
Defensible
9,840,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The fort's location on the hill made it easily defensible against enemy attacks.
  2. The soldier's actions in battle were defensible as they were following orders from their commander.
  3. The lawyer argued that her client's actions were defensible given the circumstances of the case.
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