justifiably

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "justifiably" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that can be justified with good reasons or valid arguments. Example sentence: The company's decision to increase wages was justifiably based on rising inflation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So while British TV critics regularly – and often justifiably – lament that the best drama is made in America, UK series are now enjoying unprecedented success in the US.

The Guardian

It is a wonderful performance from Fiennes, though he might still justifiably be hoping for prizes for his own film as director-star, about Charles Dickens: The Invisible Woman.

The Guardian - Film

I adore San Francisco's hoary old-timers, preserved in some kind of delicious aspic – everything from vast, crisp apple fritter donuts from Bob's to equally vast, expertly mesquite-grilled steaks at the clubby Alfred's (leave their uninspired Italian food for the tourists and don't miss the justifiably legendary martinis).

The Guardian - Travel

Real could justifiably claim they were short on luck on Saturday, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Javier Hernández all hitting the frame of the goal and Ronaldo having a penalty saved on the stroke of half-time.

The Guardian - Sport

Feelings are running high – on the side both of those rightfully frustrated that something as obvious as people being murdered in the cold light of day is met with equivocation; and those who feel justifiably aggrieved at what looks like tolerance of intolerance or, at worst, racism towards minorities.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's been a pretty great reminder of the power of journalism to touch people's lives and a vivid reminder of the justifiably important place President Lincoln's words occupy in our national consciousness".

The Guardian

"We are about to return a work from the Schwabing portion of the collection that is justifiably suspected of being looted art," Christoph Edel, a court-appointed lawyer for the 81-year-old collector, said in a statement.

The Guardian

Whichever party enticed him from his post into politics would justifiably think they had scored a major, morale-boosting publicity coup.

The Guardian

Nor in most terrestrial TV comedy would you get the rapper Akala denouncing structural racism, in a terrifically articulate guest slot that's blazed across social media, and justifiably so.

The Guardian

However, the Bruce Lee estate is now seeking legal action to prevent his CG likeness appearing in the film, with their lawyer stating the family are "justifiably shocked" at the idea.

The Guardian

The small caveat, they may justifiably have added, is it may have trashed the budget, fuelled a growing Tory civil war and reinforced a toxic image of the Conservatives that is lethal to the party's electoral prospects.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "justifiably" to clearly indicate that an action, feeling, or decision is based on sound reasoning or evidence. This adds a layer of validation to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "justifiably" when describing purely subjective opinions or preferences, as it implies an objective validation where none exists. Instead, use it when you can provide concrete reasons or supporting evidence.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "justifiably" primarily functions as a modifier, indicating that an action, feeling, or belief is warranted or defensible. Ludwig examples showcase its use to qualify claims, emotions, and decisions, underscoring the presence of valid reasons or justifications. According to Ludwig AI, the term is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

26%

Science

26%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "justifiably" is a versatile adverb used to indicate that an action, feeling, or decision is warranted or defensible. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It frequently appears in news, formal business documents and scientific contexts, often modifying claims or emotional states. When using "justifiably", ensure it is grounded in objective reasons or evidence, and consider alternatives like "legitimately" or "with good reason" for nuanced expression. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively incorporate "justifiably" into your writing to add validation and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with justification

This alternative uses a prepositional phrase to convey that something is done or believed with a valid reason.

with good reason

Emphasizes the presence of a sound rationale for a particular action or feeling.

legitimately

Suggests that something is done in accordance with the law or established rules.

rightfully

Indicates that something is done or possessed according to what is morally or legally correct.

deservedly

Implies that someone or something has earned a particular outcome or treatment.

justly

Highlights the fairness or impartiality of an action or decision.

excusably

Suggests that an action or feeling can be forgiven or understood due to extenuating circumstances.

defensibly

Indicates that an action or belief can be supported with arguments or evidence.

reasonably

Suggests that something is done or believed in a sensible and rational manner.

understandably

Indicates that a feeling or action is easy to comprehend given the circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "justifiably" in a sentence?

Use "justifiably" to modify a verb, adjective, or another adverb, indicating that the action, quality, or manner is defensible or warranted. For instance, "The manager was "justifiably angry" after discovering the accounting errors".

What can I say instead of "justifiably"?

You can use alternatives like "legitimately", "rightfully", or "with good reason" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "justifiably so"?

Yes, "justifiably so" is a common and correct usage. It emphasizes that the preceding statement is indeed warranted or justified. For example, "The team felt exhausted after the marathon, and "justifiably so"".

What is the difference between "justifiably" and "justly"?

"Justifiably" means in a way that can be defended or warranted, while "justly" means fairly or equitably. "Justifiably" focuses on the reasons behind an action, whereas "justly" concerns the fairness of the action itself. For example, you might say someone was "justly rewarded" for their efforts, implying fairness, but "justifiably proud" of their accomplishments, indicating a valid reason for pride.