rationalizes

Definition of rationalizesnext
present tense third-person singular of rationalize
as in explains
to give the reason for or cause of rationalized his decision to buy the new car by noting that it was more fuel efficient than his old vehicle

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 rationalizes But as another voter rationalizes, the sheer size of the ballot will do more harm than good in the long run. Devon Ivie, Vulture, 12 Mar. 2026 True crime, as a genre, rationalizes its exploitations—people’s tragedies and traumas, recast for popular consumption—by couching the sensationalism in considerations of justice. Megan Garber, The Atlantic, 9 Mar. 2026 One pattern rationalizes exploitation and disguises harm as the price of progress. Valerie L. Myers, The Conversation, 8 Jan. 2026 Sole rationalizes that Nike faces a much tougher competitive landscape. Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rationalizes
Verb
  • As if that wasn't enough, the hospital is also in lockdown due to an active shooter, as Maddie (Jennifer Love Hewitt) explains in the heart-pounding promo.
    Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 1 May 2026
  • Rhone explains why that changed.
    AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 1 May 2026
Verb
  • The pitch has always been that better performance justifies a higher price.
    Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 27 Apr. 2026
  • For those willing to make the trip, the standard of care justifies every mile.
    Matt Emma, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

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“Rationalizes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rationalizes. Accessed 6 May. 2026.

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