seeking justifications

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeking justifications" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of looking for reasons or explanations for a particular action, belief, or decision. Example: "In the debate, the participants were seeking justifications for their differing viewpoints on climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But White House officials on Wednesday dismissed those comments as excuses offered by killers who are seeking justifications for executing Americans.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The work treats Jocasta rather than Oedipus as the tragic victim, and shows her reliving the events of her life and seeking justification for her actions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Erik Britton, director of City consultancy Fathom and a former Bank economist, said the decision to call in the firm suggested Carney is seeking justification for a shake-up at the Bank.

The Guardian - Business

For now, Ripple looks to some like an asset that's seeking justification for its valuation.

TechCrunch

It is here that the buck stops in the process of seeking justification.

SEP

In seeking justification for the requirement of informed consent, we may therefore not have one task, but many.

SEP

Central to the method of reflective equilibrium in ethics and political philosophy is the claim that our considered moral judgments about particular cases carry weight, if only initial weight, in seeking justification.

SEP

She is seeking justification and agreement for her point of view and is defensive if anyone suggests she has a choice in how she experiences her situation.

Huffington Post

Other factors, such as invasiveness and cost, are also important in seeking justification for this treatment.

Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology

He seeks justification in the Salic law with grim, sincere seriousness.

Independent

To seek the underlying causes of terrorism is not to seek justification, only understanding.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seeking justifications", ensure that the context clearly indicates whether the justifications are genuinely sought or are being manufactured to support a predetermined conclusion.

Common error

Avoid using "seeking justifications" solely in contexts where you're implying someone is insincerely trying to excuse bad behavior. Choose a neutral alternative like "explaining reasons" if the intent is not to accuse.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeking justifications" primarily functions as a verb phrase acting as the predicate of a clause. It describes the action of looking for reasons to support or defend something, often an action, decision, or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct construction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seeking justifications" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression denoting the act of looking for reasons or explanations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English. It appears commonly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, it's crucial to consider the context and avoid overusing it in accusatory settings, opting for more neutral alternatives like "explaining reasons" when appropriate. While the phrase can carry a negative connotation, implying an attempt to excuse questionable behavior, it can also describe a legitimate effort to find logical or ethical support.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

looking for reasons

This alternative uses simpler vocabulary while retaining the core meaning of finding reasons.

seeking validation

This alternative uses a synonym for justification, focusing on the need for external approval.

searching for explanations

This phrase emphasizes the act of actively searching for explanations instead of justifications.

identifying reasons

This alternative focuses on pinpointing the reasons behind something.

attempting to rationalize

This alternative suggests an effort to make something seem reasonable or logical, which can sometimes carry a negative connotation.

pursuing validation

This highlights the action of actively pursuing validation for a claim or action.

trying to vindicate

This phrase focuses on clearing someone (or something) from blame or suspicion.

legitimizing actions

This phrase emphasizes making actions lawful or acceptable.

finding excuses

This suggests a less positive connotation, implying the reasons are not well-founded.

desiring approval

This phrase shifts the focus to the desire for approval as the primary motivator.

FAQs

How can I use "seeking justifications" in a sentence?

You can use "seeking justifications" to describe the act of looking for reasons to support an action or belief. For example: "The company was "seeking justifications" for its new environmental policy to appease concerned shareholders."

What's a more formal way to say "seeking justifications"?

A more formal alternative to "seeking justifications" could be "pursuing rationales" or "soliciting validation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "seeking justifications" and "making excuses"?

"Seeking justifications" implies a search for valid reasons or explanations, whereas "making excuses" suggests offering weak or insincere reasons to avoid blame or responsibility. The former is more neutral, while the latter carries a negative connotation.

Is "seeking justifications" always negative?

Not necessarily. While it can be used in contexts where someone is trying to excuse questionable behavior, "seeking justifications" can also describe a legitimate effort to find logical or ethical support for a decision or action. It all depends on the context.