Justifiable: meaning, definitions and examples

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justifiable

[ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪəbl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a moral or ethical sense

Able to be defended with logic or reason, especially in a way that is considered morally right or fair. Something that is justifiable is able to be explained or excused based on valid reasons.

Synonyms

acceptable, defensible, reasonable, valid.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
justifiable	Used when explaining that something can be defended with a sound reason or rationale, typically in more formal or serious discussions. The actions taken were justifiable given the circumstances. Her anger was justifiable considering the betrayal she suffered.
defensible	Used when describing something that can be defended, especially in legal or ethical contexts, suggesting it can withstand criticism or opposition. The lawyer presented a defensible argument in court. Her decision to quit was defensible due to the working conditions.
acceptable	Used for something that meets certain standards or expectations, often implying a standard level of adequacy or tolerance. Your work was acceptable, but there's room for improvement. This behavior is not acceptable in our household.
reasonable	Used to describe something that is fair and sensible, often considering the circumstances, expectations, or common sense. It's reasonable to expect a response within 48 hours. The judge issued a reasonable sentence considering the evidence.
valid	Used to express that something is based on truth, facts, or sound reasoning, often in a formal or logical context. The contract is valid for one year. Your concerns are valid and should be addressed.

Examples of usage

It is not justifiable to discriminate against someone based on their race.
The company's decision to cut costs was justifiable in order to stay in business.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in a legal sense

Capable of being proven as legally valid or right. Actions or decisions that are justifiable can be supported by law or legal principles.

Synonyms

authorized, lawful, legal, legitimate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
justifiable	Identical to the first entry, used in similar contexts. Her actions were justifiable under the circumstances. The increase in prices is justifiable given the rise in production costs.
legitimate	Used when something is conforming to the law or rules, or when something is considered proper and acceptable. Can be used in both formal and informal settings. They had a legitimate reason to protest. His concerns were legitimate and needed to be addressed.
legal	Refers to something that is permitted by law. Commonly used in everyday language as well as in legal contexts. It is legal to sell alcohol only to individuals over 21 years old. She sought legal advice before signing the contract.
lawful	Used when something is in accordance with the law. Often appears in legal discussions or formal writings. Their business operations are completely lawful. It is important to ensure that all actions are lawful.
authorized	Used when referring to something that has been officially approved or given permission. Often used in formal or legal contexts. Only authorized personnel are allowed to enter the restricted area. The document needs to be signed by an authorized representative.

Examples of usage

The lawyer argued that the defendant's actions were justifiable in self-defense.
The court found the use of force to be justifiable under the circumstances.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

'Justifiable' comes from the Latin word 'justificare', which means to make something right or fair.
The word gained popularity in the English language during the 16th century, reflecting a growing interest in ethics and morality.
In legal contexts, being justifiable often refers to actions that are allowed under the law due to valid reasons.

Philosophy

In ethics, the concept of justifiability explores whether actions can be morally defended.
Many philosophers debate what makes an action justifiable, leading to discussions on human rights, war, and justice.
Utilitarianism suggests that an action is justifiable if it produces the greatest good for the greatest number.

Pop Culture

Movies and books often explore themes of justifiability, questioning whether characters’ actions are right based on their circumstances.
The phrase 'justifiable homicide' appears in crime dramas, referring to when someone kills another person and is not legally punished due to valid reasons.
Popular music often touches on justifiable emotions, like loving someone deeply even when it’s complicated.

Psychology

Psychologists study how individuals rationalize their actions, wanting to believe they are justified in their choices.
Cognitive dissonance occurs when people face conflicting beliefs, prompting them to justify their actions to feel better.
The idea of moral justifiability can influence decisions in situations like cheating, where individuals may create reasons to excuse their behavior.

Law

In legal terms, justifiable actions are those that meet specific criteria defined by statutes or case law.
Defensive strategies often hinge on whether the accused can prove that their actions were justified under the law.
Judges and juries aim to assess the justifiability of actions to determine guilt or innocence in legal cases.

Translations

Translations of the word "justifiable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 justificável

🇮🇳 न्यायसंगत

🇩🇪 rechtfertigbar

🇮🇩 dibenarkan

🇺🇦 виправданий

🇵🇱 usprawiedliwiony

🇯🇵 正当な

🇫🇷 justifiable

🇪🇸 justificable

🇹🇷 haklı

🇰🇷 정당한

🇸🇦 مبرر

🇨🇿 ospravedlnitelný

🇸🇰 ospravedlniteľný

🇨🇳 合理的

🇸🇮 upravičljiv

🇮🇸 réttmætur

🇰🇿 негізделген

🇬🇪 მომართლებელი

🇦🇿 haqlı

🇲🇽 justificable

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,423, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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10420 importer
10421 easterly
10422 suitably
10423 justifiable
10424 pyramid
10425 mountainous
10426 hauling
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