English Reference
verb · noun

justifying

v. · n.
US /ˈdʒəstəˌfaɪɪŋ/ UK /dʒˈʌstɪfˌaɪɪŋ/ jus·ti·fy·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.explaining why something is right, reasonable, or necessary.

    v.providing a valid reason or excuse for an action, belief, or decision to show it is warranted.

    Simple

    He spent the whole meeting justifying his decision to hire more staff.

    In context

    The CEO found herself justifying the aggressive expansion strategy to a room full of skeptical shareholders during the annual review.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    v.arranging text so that it forms a straight line on both the left and right sides of the page.

    v.adjusting the spaces between words in a line of type so that the edges are even on both sides.

    Simple

    Try justifying the text to make the newsletter look more professional.

    In context

    The graphic designer spent hours justifying the columns of the magazine to ensure the layout appeared balanced and symmetrical.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Academic

    n.the act of showing that something is fair or right.

    n.the action of showing something to be right or reasonable; the process of justification.

    Simple

    The justifying of his actions took longer than the actions themselves.

    In context

    The constant justifying of budget cuts became a central theme of the political campaign throughout the autumn.

And the positions are so few, and the reward so high.” Nesrine is clear – this isn’t about agreeing with or justifying Arday’s actions.

The Guardian· 7 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated