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 combined company’s streaming business, however, will be much bigger, with Paramount+, Pluto, HBO Max and Discovery+ all set to come under one roof, with rationalization likely. — Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 29 Sep. 2026 Although the government later claimed national security concerns, attorneys for the outlets said that was a post-ban rationalization, violating their due process rights. — Ted Johnson, Deadline, 23 Sep. 2026 The words could sound somewhat pathetic, like a drunk man’s sad, self-soothing rationalization. — Sebastian Smee, The Atlantic, 16 Sep. 2026 This interjection had become a form of rationalization for Kenzo, whatever the situation. — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rationalization

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rationalization

Noun

If competition exposure has not been assessed, take advice before joining industry safety initiatives and document the safety rationale.

— Stephen Pitt-Walker, Forbes.com, 6 Nov. 2026
David Joyner, currently chairman and CEO of CVS Health, outlined the rationale for the move, including the potential for improved agility.

— Faye Brookman, Footwear News, 4 Nov. 2026

Definition of rationale

Noun

The philosopher’s quest for knowledge, Carson cheekily concludes, is simply his pretext for chasing spinning tops.

— Stacy Keltner, The Conversation, 30 Oct. 2026
Officials have denied that the tree-clearing was part of a broader plan to renovate the golf course, but Reyes called it a pretext for beginning work without proper approvals.

— Rachel Treisman, NPR, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of pretext

Noun

The results offer another explanation for the sustainability value-behavior gap, the disconnect between consumers’ environmental priorities and their purchasing decisions.

— Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2026
In truth, while these factors all play a part in shaping policy, the real explanation is far simpler.

— Oliver Melton, Foreign Affairs, 5 Nov. 2026

Definition of explanation

Noun

His experience includes accounting, medical device sales and business development roles with companies including Baxter, Cardinal Health and Quest Diagnostics.

— Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 4 Nov. 2026
Job openings rose the most in professional and business services, which includes high-paying jobs in engineering and accounting, as well as jobs in the temp industry.

— Christopher Rugaber, Los Angeles Times, 4 Nov. 2026

Definition of accounting

Noun

Shirley has since visited other states in the US under similar pretenses, showing up unannounced to grocery stores and hospice centers in search of evidence of fraud.

— Mia Sato, The Verge, 20 Oct. 2026
The application moves away from last-minute stress, unwanted items, and polite pretense, establishing a modern channel for intentional giving.

— Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of pretense

Noun

The guise of a youthful flush In those early episodes, Cathy’s makeup had to mirror her hair’s equally nonthreatening appearance, so a fresh, skin-first look was important.

— Katie Gunderman, Allure, 21 Oct. 2026
Under his guise of Guy With a Movie Camera, he’s been hired by studios and streamers to help promote their projects with his particular brand of BTS content.

— Seija Rankin, HollywoodReporter, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of guise

Noun

Organizations begin with clear values, but over time, small justifications, cultural shortcuts and competing priorities erode moral clarity.

— Susan Madsen, Forbes.com, 5 Nov. 2026
On Wednesday, before the statement from the 26 caucus members was released, Welch pointed to Tuesday’s election results as justification for his taking control of the caucus campaign.

— Jeremy Gorner, Chicago Tribune, 5 Nov. 2026

Definition of justification

Noun

The system produced a mathematical proof that was accepted by Lean, a proof-assistant software used to check the logical correctness of formal mathematical arguments.

— Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026
Dylan’s sneer and Mick Ronson’s guitar jab like fingers in some intense argument, trying to win the pyrrhic victory of a lovers’ quarrel.

— Grayson Haver Currin, Pitchfork, 7 Nov. 2026

Definition of argument

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“Rationalization.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rationalization. Accessed 8 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of rationalization

noun

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