justification

[juhs-tuh-fi-key-shuhn] / ˌdʒʌs tə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

NOUN

reason, excuse

Synonyms

STRONGEST

apology approval argument basis confirmation explanation pretext rationale rationalization vindication

STRONG

absolution account acquittal advocacy answer apologia cop-out defense exculpation exoneration extenuation grounds idea mitigation palliation palliative plea rebuttal reply response sanctification story support validation warrant wherefore

WEAK

raison d'être song and dance whatfor whitewashing whole idea why and wherefore

Antonyms

STRONGEST

charge indictment opposition

STRONG

question request 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.

In “Moveable Feasts” Mr. Newens gives the barman’s justification.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Unlike past bubble setups, the market hasn’t been flooded with tech IPOs, with those to come likely to offer justification for differentiating within the sector.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

“Literally thousands of nominations with absolutely no justification for why it needed to be there.”

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

But Davie and the BBC can argue - with some justification - that the departure of Mills shows its new processes and practices are working well.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

‘And that justification fell apart with the floods,” Woods said.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

Vocabulary lists containing justification

You Be the Judge: Jud, Jur, Jus

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A Monster Calls

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A Lesson Before Dying

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!