to justify

USAGE SUMMARY

"to justify" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain why something is reasonable or necessary. For example, "The company had to justify the cost before it could move forward with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It was hard to justify.

The New Yorker

as to justify..

Stanford University

"There were no grounds to justify deferral".

Independent

But it was harder to justify now.

The New York Times - Magazine

She used exercise to justify eating more.

The New York Times - Magazine

James is tanking games to justify leaving.

The New York Times - Sports

As if I have to justify it.

The New York Times

They did nothing to justify it".

Independent

It's hard to justify.

Harvard Business Review

The reasoning is hard to justify.

The New York Times

You were called to justify.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to justify", ensure that the reason or explanation you provide is logically sound and relevant to the context. A weak justification can undermine your argument or credibility.

Common error

Avoid attempting "to justify" actions or decisions that are inherently flawed or unethical. Trying to rationalize the unjustifiable can damage your reputation and raise ethical concerns.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to justify" primarily functions as an infinitive verb phrase. It introduces a clause that explains the reason or basis for an action, decision, or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to explain why something is reasonable or necessary. For example, "They have to justify it" explains the need for a reason.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

26%

Science

19%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to justify" functions as an infinitive verb phrase used to provide reasons or explanations, often with the intent to persuade or defend. Ludwig AI highlights its purpose in showing why something is reasonable or necessary. Its usage is very common across various domains, particularly news, academic, and scientific contexts. While generally neutral to formal in register, it’s crucial to use "to justify" appropriately, ensuring that the reason provided is logically sound and ethically justifiable. Related phrases include "to give a reason for" and "to provide a rationale for", each carrying slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to provide a rationale for

This alternative suggests a more formal and reasoned explanation.

to show sufficient reason for

This alternative is more explicit in requiring that the reason provided is adequate and convincing.

to give a reason for

This alternative is more general and less formal, focusing on the act of providing any reason, not necessarily a good one.

to explain the grounds for

This alternative emphasizes clarifying the basis or reasons behind something.

to offer an explanation for

This alternative focuses on providing an account of why something happened or is the way it is.

to warrant

This alternative means to make something necessary or appropriate.

to validate

This alternative focuses on confirming the correctness or legitimacy of something.

to defend

This alternative implies protecting something from criticism or attack.

to rationalize

This alternative suggests finding a seemingly logical reason, sometimes post-hoc, even if the real reason is different.

to vindicate

This alternative focuses on clearing someone of blame or suspicion.

FAQs

How can I use "to justify" in a sentence?

You can use "to justify" when you want to explain why something is reasonable or necessary. For instance, "The company had to justify the cost before it could move forward with the project."

What are some alternatives to using "to justify"?

Alternatives include "to give a reason for", "to offer an explanation for", or "to provide a rationale for" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "to justify" and "to rationalize"?

"To justify" usually implies providing a valid and reasonable explanation, while "to rationalize" can suggest finding a seemingly logical reason, even if it's not the true reason or is somewhat self-serving. Consider which nuance you intend to convey.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "to justify"?

It's best to avoid using "to justify" when attempting to defend actions that are unethical, illegal, or clearly wrong. In such cases, seeking "to defend" the action might be perceived as insincere or harmful.