justify

/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪ/verb

To give a good enough reason for something; to show that an action or decision was reasonable.

Example sentences

“She struggled to justify the extra cost to her boss.”
“There is no way to justify treating a customer so rudely.”

In printing, justified text has straight edges on both margins, an unrelated technical sense worth knowing.

Synonyms for justify

defend
warrant
vindicate
explain

On the Academic Word List. Find it in: Academic vocabulary.

Related words

juxtaposeTo put two things side by side so that their differences stand out.jungleA dense, hot, wild forest in tropical areas, filled with untamed plants and animals.karateA martial art from Okinawa based mainly on punches and kicks, though it also includes throws, joint locks, grappling, and other fighting techniques.juiceThe liquid that comes from fruit or other plants, often served as a drink.kayakA small, narrow boat with a closed deck and an opening for the paddler, who sits inside and moves it with a paddle that has a blade at each end.judoA sport and martial art from Japan, developed from the older fighting system of jujutsu.