B2verbformal10K+

Justify

UK /["/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪ/","/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪz/","/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪd/","/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪ/","/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪz/","/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪd/","/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to show that somebody/something is right or reasonable

In simple words: To give a good reason for something.

Examples

He tried to justify his actions during the meeting.
You need to justify your expenses with proper receipts.
Can you justify why this project is necessary?
The lawyer had to justify his client's behavior in court.
It is difficult to justify such high prices for basic goods.
The author justifies her argument with strong evidence.
He needs to justify his absence from the meeting last week.
Many people find it hard to justify their decisions in retrospect.

Usage notes

Use 'justify' when explaining reasons or arguments, especially in formal writing or debate. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

justify + object

Memory hint

Think of 'just a fly' needing to explain why it's buzzing around.

Collocations

really
truly
easily
can
serve to
appear to
on the grounds of something
on the grounds that…
to

Synonyms

defend

Antonyms

condemn
disprove
invalidate

Common mistakes

Used incorrectly as 'justification' instead of 'justify'.
Confused with 'validate' in casual contexts.
Incorrectly formed with 'justify to' instead of 'justify why'.