rationalize — to find reasons to justify or explain (one's behavior or attitude)
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to find reasons to justify or explain (one's behavior or attitude)
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈræʃənəˌlaɪz/
Example Sentences
- She rationalized eating the entire cake by saying it was her birthday week, not just her birthday.
- Students often rationalize procrastination as 'working better under pressure.'
- The CEO tried to rationalize the layoffs as necessary for company growth.
rationalize
VERB[/ˈræʃənəˌlaɪz/]
to find reasons to justify or explain (one's behavior or attitude)
He tries to rationalize eating the whole cake by calling it 'stress relief'.
Stop trying to rationalize, it's time to realize and materialize!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From the Latin word 'rationalis' meaning 'of or belonging to reason,' derived from 'ratio' meaning 'reason' or 'reckoning.' The suffix '-ize' was added to create a verb form.
Breakdown
ratio- (reason) + -nal (adjective suffix) + -ize (make/cause to be) = rationalize
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“She rationalized eating the entire cake by saying it was her birthday week, not just her birthday.”
“Students often rationalize procrastination as 'working better under pressure.'”
“The CEO tried to rationalize the layoffs as necessary for company growth.”
“Don't rationalize your shopping addiction by calling it 'supporting the economy.'”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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