a justification for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a justification for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a logical argument in support of a point or action. For example, "The committee provided a justification for holding the meeting remotely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Conard's argument is a justification for heartlessness.

The New York Times - Magazine

We submit a justification for each item.

The New York Times

This provides a justification for emulation-based design.

Automatica

"In their twisted minds, this was a justification for killing".

Independent

I searched in vain for a justification for the claim.

The Guardian

A justification for Putin's new law had been found.

The Guardian

It is a justification for delivering those services differently.

The Guardian - Opinion

The note contains a justification for the Soviet action.

Yale University

The notification shall include a justification for the determination.

Cornell University

The narrative should include a justification for the amount requested.

Columbia University

It helps to offer a justification for your request.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a justification for", ensure the reason you provide directly relates to and supports the action or decision being explained. Avoid vague or tangential explanations.

Common error

While appropriate in formal writing, repeatedly using "a justification for" in casual conversation or informal writing can sound stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a reason" or "why" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a justification for" functions as a noun phrase that typically introduces or provides the reason or rationale behind a particular action, decision, or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common expression for explaining the underlying basis for something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

30%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a justification for" is a frequently used noun phrase that serves to provide reasons or explanations for actions, decisions, or beliefs. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. It appears across varied contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing, indicating a neutral to formal register. When writing, ensure the provided justification directly supports the action being explained, and consider using simpler alternatives in less formal settings. Alternative phrases like "a rationale for" or "a reason for" can offer similar meanings with slight nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rationale for

Emphasizes the underlying logic or reasoning behind something, highlighting a more formal or systematic explanation.

a reason for

Provides a straightforward explanation or cause for an action or decision, focusing on the basic grounds.

an argument for

Suggests a persuasive case or set of reasons intended to convince someone of a particular viewpoint or action.

a basis for

Highlights the foundation or groundwork upon which a decision, argument, or belief is established.

an explanation for

Focuses on clarifying or elucidating the reasons or causes behind an event, action, or phenomenon.

a defense for

Implies a need to protect or uphold a decision or action against criticism or opposition.

a validation for

Suggests an act of confirming or proving the soundness or legitimacy of something.

a support for

Indicates evidence or reasons that reinforce or strengthen a claim or action.

a vindication for

Implies clearing someone of blame or suspicion by providing evidence or reasons that justify their actions.

a pretext for

Suggests a reason that is given to hide the real reason for something, often implying deception.

FAQs

How can I use "a justification for" in a sentence?

You can use "a justification for" to introduce the reason or explanation behind an action or decision. For example, "The company provided "a justification for" the new policy."

What is "a rationale for" versus "a justification for"?

"A rationale for" often implies a more formal and systematic explanation, while "a justification for" can refer to any reason given to support something, whether formal or informal. Choose the phrase that best matches the context.

Is it always necessary to provide "a justification for" a decision?

While not always mandatory, providing "a justification for" a decision can help build trust and understanding, especially when the decision is controversial or impacts others.

What are some alternatives to "a justification for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a reason for", "an argument for", or "an explanation for". Choose the alternative that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.