In a manner that is not justifiable; in a way that cannot be defended or excused due to being morally wrong, unfair, or illogical. This adverb describes actions, arguments, or positions that lack valid reasoning or ethical foundation, making them subject to criticism and condemnation. It highlights a blatant disregard for principles of fairness, justice, or common sense. An act performed indefensibly demonstrates a clear violation of established norms, and the actors are without a defensible position. It can also apply when a strategy is so poorly conceived that no explanation can salvage the situation. Essentially, it means there's no good reason for doing or saying what was done or said.
Indefensibly meaning with examples
- The corporation's decision to lay off thousands of employees while simultaneously awarding its executives massive bonuses was, many believed, indefensibly self-serving and cruel, sparking public outrage and calls for reform. The logic to the decision made little to no sense, other than to personally benefit the executives while harming others.
- The general's reckless strategy, which resulted in the needless loss of countless lives and the occupation of towns by enemy forces, was considered indefensibly flawed and disastrous. The commanders were unwilling to shift the strategy, and the troops paid a tremendous price. There was simply no defending what occurred.
- The politician's blatant lies and deceptive tactics used to gain power were indefensibly unethical, undermining the trust placed in public servants and damaging the integrity of the democratic process. All that mattered was achieving the desired outcome, regardless of the truth, and how many were harmed.
- The judge's biased ruling, which was clearly influenced by personal prejudice rather than the evidence presented, was deemed indefensibly unjust and an abuse of the court's authority. Many questioned his role, and called for investigation into the circumstances surrounding the case.
- The company's continued pollution of the river, despite knowing its detrimental impact on the local ecosystem and public health, was indefensibly irresponsible, revealing a complete lack of concern for the environment and the well-being of others. They only seemed to be concerned with profit.