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

There may be more relief in living your afternoon than in mentally revisiting someone else’s explanation.

— Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 13 Nov. 2026
This description, however, still provides no explanation about how at least 64 people's scores had changed.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 13 Nov. 2026

Definition of explanation

Noun

The accusations surfaced when the general manager discovered a check posted in two different categories in an area of the company’s accounting software that dealt with profit loss statements, the warrant affidavit said.

— Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 11 Nov. 2026
The estimates from the tool are not a definitive accounting of what the outbreaks actually cost.

— Annika Kim Constantino, CNBC, 11 Nov. 2026

Definition of accounting

Noun

While Springfield was undeniably autobiographical at parts, in Midwest, Davydov does away with the pretense of a fictional avatar.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Nov. 2026
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

Definition of pretense

Noun

Half-Up Knot A half-up knot provides the appeal of a classic chignon in a more casual guise.

— Calin Van Paris, InStyle, 10 Nov. 2026
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

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

rationalizations

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“Rationalization.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rationalization. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of rationalization

noun

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