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.

When I had Pharoah and Justify, I got so sick.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

It was the first time in the last 22 Triple Crown races that there was a repeat Triple Crown race winner, a streak going back to Justify in 2018.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2025

The son of Triple Crown winner Justify has won six of seven races, running mostly in Britain.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 30, 2024

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

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 3

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You Be the Judge: Jud, Jur, Jus

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