as in excuse
an explanation that frees one from fault or blame
offered a weak justification for why he was so late
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Recent Examples of justification
Officers rushed the process, issued conflicting demands, failed to de-escalate and treated Lewis’ non-threatening movement toward compliance as justification for deadly force — all actions contrary to the reform that was supposed to be underway in the department, the lawsuit alleges.
—
Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 25 May 2026
But Miss Manners would have thought that the whole justification for fake flowers is that they may be reused.
—Judith Martin, Mercury News, 25 May 2026
The Indiana Supreme Court heard arguments in an appeal about Northern Indiana Public Service Company rate increases, with an intervenor arguing that the company failed to provide specific justification.
—Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 22 May 2026
In June 2025, Farbiarz ruled that justification would likely be declared unconstitutional and ordered Khalil released.
—Michael R. Sisak, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for justification
Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 25 May 2026
But Miss Manners would have thought that the whole justification for fake flowers is that they may be reused.
—Judith Martin, Mercury News, 25 May 2026
The Indiana Supreme Court heard arguments in an appeal about Northern Indiana Public Service Company rate increases, with an intervenor arguing that the company failed to provide specific justification.
—Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 22 May 2026
In June 2025, Farbiarz ruled that justification would likely be declared unconstitutional and ordered Khalil released.
—Michael R. Sisak, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for justification
Recent Examples of Synonyms for justification
Noun
-
Round it out with a stylish Béis belt bag to keep airport essentials close at hand, leaving you no excuse to hold up security, knowing the coveted carry is just under $30.—
Julia Morlino,
Travel + Leisure,
29 May 2026
-
As a bonus, these projects can all be completed outdoors, giving you an excuse to get outside and enjoy the nice spring weather.—
Angie Hicks,
Boston Herald,
28 May 2026
Noun
-
There is no good reason for what just happened over the past six days.—
Troy Renck,
Denver Post,
27 May 2026
-
At this point the Red Sox are in serious danger, and the only reason the club is even within striking distance of a playoff spot is because the rest of the American League has been so poor.—
Mac Cerullo,
Boston Herald,
27 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Justification.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/justification. Accessed 30 May. 2026.
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