Meaning 1neutral · 82%
To give reasons showing that a decision or action was reasonable or acceptable.
Natural examples
Die Zahlen rechtfertigen die zusätzliche Ausgabe.
The figures justify the additional expense.
Sie rechtfertigte ihre Entscheidung mit klaren Gründen.
She justified her decision with clear reasons.
Nichts rechtfertigt eine solche Beleidigung.
Nothing justifies an insult like that.
Usage note
It often takes an accusative object: justify a decision. The reflexive sich rechtfertigen means to defend oneself against criticism.
Mini-lesson: rechtfertigen
To give reasons showing that a decision or action was reasonable or acceptable. It often takes an accusative object: justify a decision. The reflexive sich rechtfertigen means to defend oneself against criticism.
Check your learning
Choose one answer.Which definition matches «rechtfertigen»?