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1. Show to be reasonable or provide adequate ground for
   "The end justifies the means"
   - warrant
    
2. Show to be right by providing justification or proof
   "justify a claim"
   - vindicate
    
3. Defend, explain, clear away, or make excuses for by reasoning
   "justify the child's seemingly crazy behaviour"
   - apologize, apologise [Brit], excuse, rationalize, rationalise [Brit]
    
4. Let off the hook
   - absolve, free
    
5. Adjust the spaces between words
   "justify the margins"

Derived forms: justifies, justified, justifying

See also: justifiable, justification, justificative, justifier

Type of: adjust, confirm, correct, defend, fend for, forgive, maintain, pardon, reassert, set, support, uphold

Encyclopedia: Justify