justify

[juhs-tuh-fahy] / ˈdʒʌs təˌfaɪ /

VERB

legitimize, substantiate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

advocate condone confirm countenance defend explain favor maintain rationalize support sustain uphold validate vindicate warrant

STRONG

absolve acquit alibi approve assert brief claim clear contend crawl establish exculpate excuse exonerate legalize palliate pardon plead rebut square verify

WEAK

answer for apologize for argue for be answerable for bear out cop a plea do justice to make allowances make good show cause speak in favor stand up for

Antonyms

STRONGEST

attack condemn contradict deny desert disapprove neglect oppose refuse reject veto

STRONG

accuse blame charge convict damn disagree disprove incriminate invalidate punish sentence

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.

Would demand for public transit amid a car culture justify the investment?

From Los Angeles Times

The earnings impact for container shipping is balanced and the recent sector outperformance is difficult to justify, J.P.Morgan says.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Wars are not started by films. But wars are easier to justify when societies have already learned to cheer them in the dark."

From BBC

Rather, he said, leaders in a republic must seek to “mold” public sentiment—to convince an often skeptical populace that a controversial course of action is justified.

From The Wall Street Journal

"The archaeological sites do not contain any military or security presence. Therefore, this argument cannot be used to justify their bombing," he said.

From Barron's

justify

Example Sentences

Related Words