rationalize
verb
ˈra-shə-nə-ˌlīz \
Definition of rationalize
1 : to bring into accord with reason or cause something to seem reasonable: such as
a : to substitute a natural for a supernatural explanation of rationalize a myth
b : to attribute (one's actions) to rational and creditable motives without analysis of true and especially unconscious motives rationalized his dislike of his brother broadly : to create an excuse or more attractive explanation for rationalize the problem
2 : to free (a mathematical expression) from irrational parts rationalize a denominator
3 : to apply the principles of scientific management to (something, such as an industry or its operations) for a desired result (such as increased efficiency)
: to provide plausible but untrue reasons for conduct
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Other words from rationalize
ˌra-shə-nə-ˈlī-
\
adjective
ˌra-shə-nə-lə-
\
noun
ˈra-shə-nə-ˌlī-
\
noun
Synonyms for rationalize
Synonyms
account (for), attribute, explain, explain away
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Examples of rationalize in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
When something awful happens, our instinct is to try to fix or rationalize. — Jackie Pilossoph, chicagotribune.com, "Column: When and how to use the power of silence in a relationship," 25 Apr. 2018 These expenditures can be rationalized as representing an alternative GOTV (Get Out the Vote) technique. — Ed Kilgore, Daily Intelligencer, "The Bill for the Ballot Battle Over California Gas Tax Might Reach $75 Million," 9 July 2018 Van Sant sprinkles those inky little cartoons throughout the film, sometimes with animation, demonstrating if never rationalizing Callahan’s impulse to put pen to paper. — Justin Chang, latimes.com, "Review: Joaquin Phoenix stars in the captivating addiction drama 'Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far on Foot'," 12 July 2018 In rationalizing the AP World changes, the College Board spokesman Zachary Goldberg cited survey and performance data suggesting that too many students and teachers drown in the information overload and ultimately fail to gain value from the course. — Alia Wong, The Atlantic, "The Controversy Over Just How Much History AP World History Should Cover," 13 June 2018 It was based on such an absence of traitorous intent that the Obama Justice Department and the FBI — and, more important, President Obama himself — rationalized dropping the Clinton investigation rather than filing an indictment. — Andrew C. Mccarthy, National Review, "Former CIA Agent Arrested for Mishandling Classified Information," 17 Jan. 2018 And gun violence is inarguably tragic; that a young man was cut down in the prime of his life is impossible to rationalize, no matter his stature or past misdeeds. — Hannah Giorgis, The Atlantic, "How Will XXXTentacion Be Remembered?," 19 June 2018 Syriza, at the time a small hard-left opposition party, often rationalized these incidents as the product of the legitimate indignation of the people. — Yannis Palaiologos, WSJ, "The Far Left and Right Run Riot on Greek Streets," 28 May 2018 Despite what the evidence may or may not present in the Zervos lawsuit, those moments can and probably will be rationalized by some Trump supporters. — Amber Phillips, Washington Post, "The president of the United States was just accused of persistent charity fraud," 14 June 2018These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'rationalize.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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More Definitions for rationalize
rationalize
verb
English Language Learners Definition of rationalize
: to think about or describe something (such as bad behavior) in a way that explains it and makes it seem proper, more attractive, etc.
: to find ways to make (something, such as an industry, a company, etc.) waste less time, effort, and money
See the full definition for rationalize in the English Language Learners Dictionary
rationalize
verb
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Kids Definition of rationalize
: to find an excuse for something that seems reasonable or believable He tried to rationalize his foolish purchase.
rationalize
verb
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Medical Definition of rationalize
: to bring into accord with reason or cause something to seem reasonable especially : to attribute (one's actions) to rational and creditable motives without analysis of true and especially unconscious motives he tried to rationalize his cruel behavior
: to provide plausible but untrue reasons for conduct
Other words from rationalize
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noun
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