Synonyms for

Justifying

Verb / ˈdʒʌstʌˌfaɪɪŋ / Another word for justifying — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To show or prove to be right or reasonable.

Synonyms & similar words

warrant blame justify rationalise absolve apologise free apologize excuse vindicate rationalize vindicate defend explain rationalize excuse support legitimize validate approve warrant exonerate uphold argue substantiate corroborate authenticate verify confirm establish prove

Synonyms by register

Formal

validating substantiating corroborating vindicating

Informal

explaining backing up making sense of clearing

Literary

exonerating absolving

Antonyms

condemning accusing blaming criticizing denouncing discrediting

Common collocations

  • justifying the means
  • justifying the expense
  • justifying the decision
  • justifying the action
  • justifying the delay
  • justifying the cost
  • justifying the approach

Word family

noun justification
verb justify
adjective justifiable
adverb justifiably

Usage note

Often used when providing reasons or evidence to show that something is right or reasonable. Be mindful of the context, as 'justifying' can sometimes imply making excuses.

Example sentences

  1. She tried to justify her actions, but everyone knew she was lying.
  2. He felt guilty for his mistake and tried to justify it by blaming someone else.
  3. The lawyer had to justify his client's actions in court.
  4. I can't justify spending that much money on a new phone.
  5. She justified her tardiness by saying there was traffic.

Quotes

  • The end does not always justify the means.
  • Reasoning with a child is fine, if you can reach the child's reason without destroying your own.
  • In war, truth is the first casualty.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words