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.

Viewed in that context, paying a further $160 simply to have the company revisit a repair that has not restored normal operation seems difficult to justify.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

Anything short of that wouldn’t justify Norway’s long wait, Ryerson said.

From Los Angeles Times • 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

Artificial-intelligence technologies—in order to justify the billions being spent to cement them into the broader economy—will need to generate massive returns.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Bragging about a drink named after her, to somehow justify working at an oyster place instead of following her acting dreams.

From "Better Nate Than Ever" by Tim Federle

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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