Main entry: justify
Definition: adjust the spaces between words
Usage: justify the margins
Main entry: rationalise, rationalize, justify, apologise, apologize, excuse
Definition: defend, explain, clear away, or make excuses for by reasoning
Usage: rationalize the child's seemingly crazy behavior; he rationalized his lack of success
Main entry: vindicate, justify
Definition: show to be right by providing justification or proof
Usage: vindicate a claim
Definition: show to be reasonable or provide adequate ground for
Usage: The emergency does not warrant all of us buying guns; The end justifies the means
Main entry: free, justify, absolve
Definition: let off the hook
Usage: I absolve you from this responsibility