rationalize
Translation
to rationalise, to justify
Examples
He tried to rationalize his bad behavior.
He tried to rationalise his bad behaviour.
The company will rationalize its operations to save money.
The company will rationalise its operations to save money.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to justify (sth.) He tried to rationalise his behaviour.
Similar Words
Synonyms: justify, explain away, make excuses for
Etymology
From 'rational' plus the verb-forming suffix '-ize', meaning 'to make'. So, 'to make something seem rational'.
Memory Tips
When you 'rationalise', you try to find a 'rational' reason for something that might be irrational or wrong.