justify implies showing to be true, just, or valid by appeal to a standard or to precedent.

JUSTIFY definition: to show (an act, claim, statement, etc.) to be just or right. See examples of justify used in a sentence.

JUSTIFY definition: 1. to give or to be a good reason for: 2. If you justify yourself, you give a good reason for what…. Learn more.

Definition of justify verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

To justify a decision, action, or idea means to show or prove that it is reasonable or necessary. No argument can justify a war.

1. to show or prove to be just, right, or reasonable: The pleasure we get from these paintings justifies their high cost. 2. to defend or uphold as warranted or well-grounded: Don't try to …

to show (an act, claim, statement, etc.) to be just or right: The end does not always justify the means. to defend or uphold as warranted or well-grounded: Don't try to justify his rudeness.

Dec 11, 2025 · justify (third-person singular simple present justifies, present participle justifying, simple past and past participle justified) (transitive) To provide an acceptable explanation for.

To provide an explanation or reasoning that supports or defends a decision, action, or belief. See example sentences, synonyms, and etymology for the verb justify.

To justify is to make excuses for one's actions, like the dieter who has to justify the few tiny pieces of chocolate she's sneaked in between salads.