RATIONALIZATION Synonyms: 20 Similar Words

rationalization

noun

Definition of rationalization

as in rationale

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of rationalization The rationalization is that residents are struggling and need help paying for food, electricity and gasoline. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 20 May 2026 That may have been persuasive to some partners before, but this administration’s penchant for both threats and use of force has fatally undermined the credibility of that rationalization. — Elizabeth Shackelford, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2026 Although the Mughals mainly incorporated the existing Indian revenue system, Akbar’s reign also saw the rationalization of revenue administration, notably under the Hindu minister Todar Mal, with systematic land measurement and assessment that balanced imperial income with agrarian stability. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Apr. 2026 On the Waterfront is, of course, a legendary film, but today it is considered by many to be a rationalization for Kazan collaborating with HUAC, not just a good crime picture with Marlon Brando. — Jordan Hoffman, Vanity Fair, 16 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rationalization

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rationalization

Noun

Recent concerns regarding the war's impact on shipping and construction timelines were addressed by Disney's CFO, who reaffirmed full commitment, citing the project's long-term view and strategic rationale.

— Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026
For something which has no rationale in science, which is somehow breaking it into three is better for the child.

— ABC News, ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026

Definition of rationale

Noun

Conservationists and some state officials contend the move is a pretext for commercial development that will harm wildlife habitats and water quality.

— Sarah Henry, AZCentral.com, 19 Aug. 2026
During the voyage, the report alleged that Caruso separated the boy from his parents for at least an hour under the pretext of getting ice cream.

— Ana Maria Soler, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of pretext

Noun

Luigi Mangione is due in federal court today after both parties hastily called for an appearance earlier this week without any clear explanation.

— David Goldman, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026
The same explanation has been offered as to why Riyadh Air, or another PIF company, does not just pour money into Newcastle through sponsorship deals.

— Chris Waugh, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of explanation

Noun

George Newcomb, who is serving as interim CFO, will continue in his role as controller and chief accounting officer.

— Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 19 Aug. 2026
The going concern disclosure is based on a forward-looking technical accounting analysis which considers only funding that has been unconditionally secured as of the date of the assessment.

— CBS Chicago Team, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of accounting

Noun

The food is stellar, as is the service, but there isn’t a shred of pretence about any of it.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026
Before Starlink, someone on a business trip might still decide to expense suboptimal Wi-Fi to keep up the pretense of working.

— Nancy Walecki, The Atlantic, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of pretense

Noun

Twitch had a simple justification for letting its parent company, Amazon, use streamers’ content to train generative AI by default.

— Angela Yang, NBC news, 14 Aug. 2026
Additionally, searches using Flock’s system will now require search justification by requiring case codes for all law enforcement searches with an exemption for emergency searches, which will still be reviewed.

— Joel Feder, The Drive, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of justification

Noun

According to Ian Weinstein, a defense lawyer and professor at Fordham School of Law, the specific charges at issue will determine the success of a double jeopardy argument.

— Peter Charalambous, ABC News, 14 Aug. 2026
In January, prosecutors filed a response opposing the motion, Kestou filed a brief in support of it, and the court heard arguments from both parties, court documents said.

— DeJanay Booth-Singleton, CBS News, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of argument

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rationalization

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“Rationalization.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rationalization. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of rationalization

noun

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