German Conversation · Level 96
60 words
German word
vertretbar
Pronunciation
IPA/fɛɐ̯ˈtʁeːtbaːɐ̯/
Meaning
- adjectivereasonable
Example
Das ist eine vertretbare Lösung.
That is a reasonable solution.
More examples
Für viele ist die Maßnahme nur unter Umständen vertretbar.
For many, the measure is justifiable only under certain circumstances.
Core concept
A decision or view that can stand up to scrutiny despite the limits of the situation.
Common phrases
unter Umständen vertretbar
justifiable under certain circumstances
politisch vertretbar
politically defensible
Similar words
verteidbar: Supportable through a convincing explanation or defense.
akzeptabel: Considered acceptable in the circumstances.
zulässig: Permitted by the relevant rules or laws.
zumutbar: Within the level of burden a person can reasonably bear.
Definition in German
Bezeichnet eine Handlung oder Ansicht, die unter den vorhandenen Umständen als zulässig oder gerechtfertigt angesehen wird.
Word origin
Vertretbar combines vertreten, meaning 'to represent or defend', with -bar, meaning 'able to be', and thus describes something defensible.
Usage tips
- The phrase 'nicht vertretbar' expresses a strong rejection, often meaning that a decision cannot be defended under the circumstances.
Other meanings
- acceptableadjective
- permissibleadjective
- justifiableadjective
Opposites
- unannehmbarunacceptableadjective
Related words
- Vertretbarkeitreasonablenessnoun
- Vertreterrepresentativenoun