justify

(eg. tattoo, fire, literature )

justify  /ˈdʒə stə ˌfaɪ/ ? Meaning of "justify"

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Definition(s):

  1. (v) show to be reasonable or provide adequate ground for
  2. (v) show to be right by providing justification or proof
  3. (v) defend, explain, clear away, or make excuses for by reasoning
  4. (v) let off the hook
  5. (v) adjust the spaces between words

Synonym(s)

apologize, excuse, rationalise, rationalize, vindicate, warrant

Derived Word(s)

justificative, justificatory, justifier

Usage(s):

  1. A federal court shuts down a flood-control boondoggle in Missouri, saying the books were cooked to justify the project.
  2. She now has to come home and justify to her husband why she bought this during a recession.
  3. Kundermann, who found out about the CIA's use of his work from a PTI reporter, said his research did not justify the Justice Department's conclusion.

Quotes

  1. "In the last six months, AIG has received substantial sums from the US Treasury," Mr. Obama said. "How do they justify this outrage to the taxpayers who are keeping the company afloat?"
    on Mar 16, 2009 By: Barack Obama Source: New York Times

  2. "Fear of litigation alone cannot justify the city's reliance on race to the detriment of individuals who passed the examinations and qualified for promotions," wrote justice Anthony Kennedy for the court.
    on Jun 29, 2009 By: Anthony Kennedy Source: guardian.co.uk

  3. President Bush said, "In a world where some invoke the name of God to justify acts of terror and murder and hate, we need your message that God is love."
    on Apr 16, 2008 By: President Bush Source: News 10 Now

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