: Definition, Synonyms, Contextual Usage, and More
What Does “Justified” Mean?
The word justified generally refers to something that has been shown to be right, reasonable, or legitimate. It is commonly used in legal, moral, and textual contexts.
Synonyms for “Justified”
To enhance your vocabulary, here are various synonyms for “justified,” categorized based on their strength of meaning:
Strongest Matches:
- Warranted
- Validated
- Vindicated
- Defensible
- Rightful
- Legitimate
- Authorized
- Sanctioned
- Reasonable
Strong Matches:
- Excused
- Rationalized
- Substantiated
- Supported
- Proven
- Sound
- Allowable
- Backed
- Affirmed
Weak Matches:
- Acceptable
- Understandable
- Fair
- Plausible
- Logical
- Tenable
- Appropriate
- Permissible
- Explainable
Example Sentences with “Justified”
- The court ruled that his actions were justified under the circumstances.
- She felt justified in quitting her job after being mistreated for years.
- The budget cuts were justified by the company’s financial difficulties.
- His anger was justified, given the situation he was put in.
- The team’s decision to delay the launch was justified due to safety concerns.
Contextual Usage of “Justified”
The meaning of “justified” can slightly change depending on the context in which it is used. Here are some common contexts:
Legal Context:
- “The defendant was justified in using self-defense.”
- “A justified use of force is permitted by law.”
Moral and Ethical Context:
- “His actions were morally justified because he had no other choice.”
- “She believes that lying is never justified, regardless of the situation.”
Text Formatting Context:
- “The paragraph was justified to align with both margins.”
- “In printed books, text is often fully justified for a clean layout.”
Business and Financial Context:
- “The expenses were justified by the increase in revenue.”
- “Management had to ensure that the layoffs were justified and necessary.”
Related Words and Phrases
- Justification (noun): The reason or explanation that proves something is right.
- Justifiably (adverb): In a way that is reasonable or right.
- Justify (verb): To show or prove something to be right or reasonable.
- Vindication (noun): Proof that someone or something was correct or not guilty.
- Exoneration (noun): The act of being cleared from blame or wrongdoing.
Common Questions About “Justified”
1. Is “justified” always used in a positive sense?
Not necessarily. While “justified” often implies legitimacy or reasonableness, it can also be used in a more neutral or negative context. For example, some actions may be considered legally justified but not morally acceptable.
2. What is the difference between “justified” and “excused”?
- “Justified” means that something is proven to be right or necessary.
- “Excused” means that something is forgiven or overlooked, even if it wasn’t necessarily right.
3. Can “justified” be used in informal speech?
Yes! While “justified” is commonly used in formal writing and legal discussions, it can also appear in casual conversations, such as:
- “I felt totally justified in skipping the meeting.”
- “Her frustration was justified, given how she was treated.”
Conclusion
The word justified is versatile, with meanings that span legal, ethical, and grammatical contexts. Whether you’re writing an academic paper, making a moral argument, or discussing text alignment, understanding the nuances of “justified” can enhance your communication skills.
Disclaimer:
This page is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and comprehensive linguistic insights, interpretations may vary based on context. For legal definitions or formal guidance, consult a professional expert.
