justify

Definitions

1. 1adjective

   To prove or show to be just; to vindicate; to maintain or defend as conformable to law, right, justice, propriety, or duty.

2. 2adjective

   To pronounce free from guilt or blame; to declare or prove to have done that which is just, right, proper, etc.; to absolve; to exonerate; to clear.

3. 3adjective

   To treat as if righteous and just; to pardon; to exculpate; to absolve.

4. 4adjective

   To prove; to ratify; to confirm.

5. 5adjective

   To make even or true, as lines of type, by proper spacing; to adjust, as type. See Justification, 4.

6. 6intransitive verb

   To form an even surface or true line with something else; to fit exactly.

7. 7intransitive verb

   To take oath to the ownership of property sufficient to qualify one's self as bail or surety.

8. 8verb

   adjust the spaces between words

   "justify the margins"

9. 9verb

   defend, explain, clear away, or make excuses for by reasoning

   "rationalize the child's seemingly crazy behavior"

   "he rationalized his lack of success"

   Synonyms

   apologiseapologizeexcuserationaliserationalize
10. 10verb

    show to be right by providing justification or proof

    "vindicate a claim"

    Synonyms

    vindicate
11. 11verb

    show to be reasonable or provide adequate ground for

    "The emergency does not warrant all of us buying guns"

    "The end justifies the means"

    Synonyms

    warrant
12. 12verb

    let off the hook

    "I absolve you from this responsibility"

    Synonyms

    absolvefree