justify

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   To show or argue that a decision or action is reasonable or right.

   Grammar: Takes an object: justify the cost.

   Patterns

   • justify something
   • justify doing something
   • justify something to someone

   How can you justify such a high price?

   She tried to justify her decision to the board.

   Nothing can justify violence.

2. 2verbtransitive

   To be a good enough reason for something.

   Grammar: The subject is the reason: the results justify the effort.

   Patterns

   • something justifies something

   The results justify the extra work.

   The evidence did not justify an arrest.

3. 3verbtransitivecomputing

   To arrange printed text so that its edges are straight.

   Grammar: Takes an object: justify the text.

   Patterns

   • justify the text

   Justify the paragraph so both margins line up.

   The program can justify text to the right margin.

Word forms

Common combinations

justify the cost

The benefits justify the cost.

justify a decision

He justified his decision calmly.

hard to justify

The delay is hard to justify.

justify yourself

You don't have to justify yourself.

justify the means

The end does not justify the means.

Synonyms and how they differ

defend

Means argue in support against criticism.

warrant

Is formal and means to be good reason for.

explain

Gives reasons but does not claim they are good enough.

vindicate

Means to show that someone was right after doubt.

Opposites

Word family

justification noun

a reason that makes something acceptable

justifiable adjective

able to be defended

justified adjective

having good reason

Commonly confused: justify or excuse?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “justify”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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