justify implies showing to be true, just, or valid by appeal to a standard or to precedent.
the action was used to justify military intervention
Example Sentences
He tried to justify his behavior by saying that he was being pressured unfairly by his boss. The fact that we are at war does not justify treating innocent people as criminals.
Recent Examples on the WebCan anybody justify not voting Aaron Judge for MVP? Joe Noga, cleveland, 6 Sep. 2022 It has been shown to reduce the risk of severe disease in people who do not need to be hospitalized, but who are at high risk for complications of COVID (a history of a heart attack is sufficient reason to justify the use of Paxlovid). Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 1 Sep. 2022 The cost of carbon has been used in the past to justify tougher limits on carbon emissions and more spending on climate solutions, like transitioning to renewable energy and natural flood protection.CBS News, 1 Sep. 2022 The cameras on the upcoming iPhone Pro models are rumored to be upgraded to possibly justify the price increase, among other enhancements. Catherine Thorbecke, CNN, 1 Sep. 2022 Authoritarian governments justify censorship on the basis that some ideas are too disruptive or harmful to be heard. Walter Russell Mead, WSJ, 29 Aug. 2022 But how much does the probability that Musk can free himself justify the gulf between Twitter’s current price and the $50-plus purchase that most experts deem most likely? Shawn Tully, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2022 This approach could justify buying both an inexpensive, lightweight vacuum to keep in your car as well as a larger garage unit or shop vac. Collin Morgan And Jon Langston, Car and Driver, 26 Aug. 2022 In addition, Ludwig said, high staff turnover doesn't justify missing court deadlines. Daniel Bice, Journal Sentinel, 19 Aug. 2022 See More
Word History
Etymology
Middle English justifien, from Anglo-French or Late Latin; Anglo-French justifier, from Late Latin justificare, from Latin justus — see justentry 1