justify

Definition

To provide an acceptable explanation for.

Etymology

From Middle English justifien, from Old French justifier, from Late Latin justificare (“make just”), from Latin justus, iustus (“just”) + ficare (“make”), from facere, equivalent to just + -ify.

Example Sentences

• "How can you justify spending so much money on clothes?"
• "Paying too much for car insurance is not justified."
• "What in me is dark Illumine, what is low raise and support; That to the highth of this great Argument I may assert th’ Eternal Providence, And justifie the wayes of God to men."

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