rationalize

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.

Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Paul Atkins in a presentation mostly aimed at showing that the agencies would harmonize their rules to promote cryptocurrency innovation and rationalize margin collateral requirements in securities markets.

From Barron's • Jan. 31, 2026

Dahlia Lithwick: There is a very human propensity, especially in times of crisis, to normalize and rationalize and temporize.

From Slate • Dec. 17, 2025

You develop an adult level of awareness to rationalize and empathize with your situation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 16, 2025

They rationalize this otherwise contradictory behavior by telling themselves that even though the bubble assets they’re investing in are grossly overvalued, they will know when to get out — just before the bubble bursts.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 8, 2025

Some of them sought to rationalize their behavior after the fact, as though fearful that history would judge them for their silence.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik