justify

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B1 — Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb show to be reasonable or provide adequate ground for
  2. verb show to be right by providing justification or proof
  3. verb defend, explain, clear away, or make excuses for by reasoning

Etymology

From Middle English justifien, from Old French justifier, from Late Latin justificare (“make just”), from Latin justus, iustus (“just”) + ficare (“make”), from facere, equivalent to just + -ify.

In classic literature

Synonyms

warrant

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