Definitions

justify

[juhs-tuh-fahy] / ˈdʒʌs təˌfaɪ /

VERB

legitimize, substantiate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

advocate condone confirm countenance defend explain favor maintain rationalize support sustain uphold validate vindicate warrant

STRONG

absolve acquit alibi approve assert brief claim clear contend crawl establish exculpate excuse exonerate legalize palliate pardon plead rebut square verify

WEAK

answer for apologize for argue for be answerable for bear out cop a plea do justice to make allowances make good show cause speak in favor stand up for

Antonyms

STRONGEST

attack condemn contradict deny desert disapprove neglect oppose refuse reject veto

STRONG

accuse blame charge convict damn disagree disprove incriminate invalidate punish sentence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Justify did not run his first race until Feb. 18 as a 3-year-old.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 30, 2025

And let’s not forget about two Triple Crowns with American Pharoah in 2015 and Justify in 2018.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2025

Justify crossed the finish line first in the Santa Anita Derby but was disqualified six years later when it was determined that the California Horse Racing Board mishandled a contamination positive on the colt.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2025

He would be the first to win both the Derby and the Preakness since Justify in 2018.

From Seattle Times • May 18, 2024

Speak truth, Alexas; whether it offend Or please Ventidius, care not: Justify Thy injured queen from malice: Dare his worst.

From The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 05 by Scott, Walter, Sir

Vocabulary lists containing justify

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You Be the Judge: Jud, Jur, Jus

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