Definitions

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.

The company is expected to spend roughly $600 billion by the end of the decade, underscoring the scale of growth investors will need to see to justify its valuation.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

After the dismal winter, the retained management structure needed any sort of victory to begin to justify the faith that has been shown in them.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

Gapen at Morgan Stanley said this is important because the Fed could justify rate hikes if there is a risk of higher prices.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 6, 2026

Steve Ruby, an attorney for the Justices, said allegations in the Rowlings’ lawsuit are baseless and designed to justify an illegal effort to take control of the Greenbrier.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

I must justify myself in the eyes of these people, I thought forlornly, and I said, “I spoke the truth...my husband is here, see, he is coming to me,” as I saw him approach.

From "Nectar in a Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya

Vocabulary lists containing justify

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 3

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You Be the Judge: Jud, Jur, Jus

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