justified

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A second principle that limits when deadly force can legally be used is proportionality: Shooting someone is only justified when it is a proportional response to the perceived threat.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

It is never justified, in our view, to attack civilians in retaliation for state-sponsored action that leads to the loss of civilian life.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

In a signed statement, she said no culture justified violating women and girls, praised police for recent arrests, and encouraged victims to seek medical and psychological support.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

Michael Green, chief market strategist at Simplify Asset Management, said fundamentals never justified some of the enthusiasm for overseas shares in the first place.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 2026

There’s pride in it, because it demonstrates how extreme and therefore justified it was, for me.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood