Justified Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪd/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

A justified instance or act is one that is fully or reasonably explained, made right, or made to seem correct or acceptable.

Examples

1. “The company provided a justified response to the criticism, addressing each point and making amends.”

2. “The professor was pleased to find that the students’ excuses for missing class were justified, and she accepted them.”

Synonyms

1. Validated

2. Rationalized

3. Vindicated

Antonyms

1. Vilified

2. Maligned

3. Defamed

Etymology

The word “justified” has its roots in the Latin word “justificare,” which means “to make righteous” or “to vindicate.” It has been used in the English language since the 15th century and has evolved to encompass a range of meanings related to explanation, justification, and vindication.

Usage Notes

The word “justified” can be used in a variety of contexts, including but not limited to:

1. Law: to provide a valid reason or explanation for a defendant’s actions

2. Business: to defend one’s actions or decisions

3. Personal development: to take responsibility for one’s actions and make amends

Additional Information

Justified acts or instances are those that are reasonable, fair, and in line with established standards or expectations. They can be contrasted with actions that are unjust, unfair, or based on false pretenses. When someone provides a justified explanation, it means they have a strong and reasonable argument to support their position.

Being justified can have positive connotations, as it implies a sense of being cleared of wrongdoing or receiving a fair outcome. However, it can also imply a need to make amends or justify one’s actions in the face of criticism or social pressure.

The concept of justification is closely tied to the ideas of accountability and responsibility. When we justify our actions, we acknowledge our mistakes and take steps to make things right.

Justification can be a complex and nuanced concept, especially in contexts where cultural or personal norms are at play. It is essential to consider multiple perspectives and to approach situations with empathy and understanding.

Cultural References

Justified is a popular TV show that aired on the FX network from 2010 to 2015. It is a crime drama that follows an Elvis impersonator turned U.S. Marshal.

Idiomatic Expressions

Some common idiomatic expressions that include the word “justified” are:

1. Justified in one’s actions: valid or reasonable in a given situation

2. Justified by circumstances: made reasonable or acceptable by the situation

3. To be justified: to be cleared of wrongdoing or to receive a favorable outcome

Related Words

Some words related to “justified” are:

1. Valid: having the power to prove or confirm something

2. Rational: based on reason or logic

3. Justify: to provide a valid reason or explanation for something

4. Vindicate: to defend or clear someone of wrongdoing

Collocations

Some common collocations with the word “justified” are:

1. Justified claim: a valid or reasonable reason for a demand or assertion

2. Justified criticism: well-founded or reasonable criticism or disapproval

3. Justified fear: a reasonable or valid fear or concern

Frequency of Use

The word “justified” is commonly used in modern English, especially in formal or official contexts. It is often used in law, business, and education, as well as in everyday conversations.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of the word “justified” are “justefied,” “justifide,” and “justefyed.”