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Definitions

rationalize

[rash-uh-nl-ahyz, rash-nl-ahyz] / ˈræʃ ə nlˌaɪz, ˈræʃ nlˌaɪz /
VERB
make excuse; justify
Synonyms
STRONGEST
justify
STRONG
deliberate elucidate excise excuse extenuate reason reconcile resolve think vindicate
WEAK
account for apply logic cop a plea cop out explain away give alibi intellectualize make allowance reason out think through

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.

In the letter, Irenic said Snapchat should rationalize its cost structure and the company has over-hired.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

“We will absolutely have to rationalize the overall corporate overhead of the company,” Ellison said after being asked about the possibility of layoffs.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 7, 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

Before the end of the year, Pham hopes to rationalize conflicting rules that now oblige traders to put up more collateral than needed to secure margin loans.

From Barron's • Oct. 21, 2025

Rather it seems that an aspect of human nature is the tendency to cling tightly to one’s advantages and privileges and to rationalize the suffering and exclusion of others.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander