legitimieren
Translation
to legitimize, to legitimate, to authorize, to justify
Examples
Er versucht, seine Handlung zu legitimieren.
He is trying to legitimize his action.
Ein Ausweis legitimiert den Inhaber.
An ID card authorizes the holder.
Das Kind wurde nachträglich legitimiert.
The child was legitimized subsequently.
Grammar Patterns
((et4)) to legitimize/justify (sth.) He's trying to legitimize his action.
sich ((as sth.)) to prove one's identity/authority (as sth.) The police officer identified himself with his ID card.
Similar Words
rechtfertigen (to justify), anerkennen (to recognize), autorisieren (to authorize)
Etymology
From Latin 'legitimus' (lawful), related to 'lex' (law).
Memory Tips
Think of the English word 'legitimate'. It's about making something legally or morally right or acceptable.