# unjustifiable

/ˌənˌdʒəstɪˈfaɪəbəɫ/ (US) · /ʌndʒˈʌstɪfˌaɪəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unjustifiable
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

so wrong or unfair that you cannot give a good reason for it. You use it when there is no excuse for what happened.

For teachers: incapable of being defended or shown to be right, reasonable, or acceptable. Often modified by intensifiers such as 'completely' or 'morally' to stress the strength of condemnation.

## Examples

- His rude reply to the waiter is unjustifiable.
- The company called the sudden price rise unjustifiable after customers complained about hidden fees.
- The report described the delay in sending aid as morally unjustifiable, arguing that officials had clear warnings and enough resources to act sooner.

## Synonyms

inexcusable, unjustified, indefensible

## Antonyms

justifiable, justified, defensible, excusable

## Usage notes

- Often follows linking verbs such as 'be' or 'seem'; also used attributively before nouns.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.