Justified: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when showing that an action or decision is right given the circumstances. Often used in legal or moral contexts.

• His actions were justified given the threats he received
• The manager felt justified in firing the employee for theft

Used when something conforms to the law or rules. Often used in legal, official, or formal contexts.

• He is the legitimate heir to the throne
• They have a legitimate business license

Used to describe something that is legally or logically sound. Often used in legal or formal contexts.

• His passport is still valid
• She made some valid points during the debate

Used when something is justified or necessary. Often used in contexts where actions or feelings are explained.

• The police action was warranted given the evidence
• His anger was warranted considering the situation

Used to describe something that is fair and sensible. Often used in everyday contexts.

• It's reasonable to assume that he’s late because of traffic
• She offered a reasonable explanation for her absence

Used to describe something that is satisfactory or allowed. Often used in general contexts.

• Cheating is not acceptable behavior
• The results of the project were acceptable

Use this word when you need to show that something is acceptable or reasonable based on the circumstances.

• Her actions were justified considering the situation.
• The company's decision to lay off workers is justified by the falling profits.

This word is often used when someone proves their innocence after being wrongly accused. There is a strong sense of justice or clearing one's name.

• The new evidence will vindicate her.
• He felt vindicated after the charges were dropped.

This word is often used when someone is protecting themselves, their actions, or their beliefs from criticism or attack.

• He had to defend his thesis in front of the panel.
• She defended her friend from the accusations.

This is used when you want to provide help, assistance, or backing to someone or something.

• I support your decision to pursue higher education.
• The charity supports various community projects.

Choose this when you need to provide evidence to prove that something is true.

• You need to substantiate your claims with solid evidence.
• The lawyer tried to substantiate the alibi.

Use this word when checking if something is accurate or acceptable, often through proof or confirmation.

• Can you validate this ticket at the counter?
• The scientist needs to validate the experiment results.