Rationalize
Verb
UK
/ˈræʃ.ən.əl.aɪz/
US
/ˈræʃ.ən.əl.aɪz/
Level: c1
Definition
To explain or justify something with logical reasons, or to reorganise something to make it more efficient.
Example
"Don't rationalize your mistake."
"She rationalized spending extra money by saying it was an investment."
"The company rationalized its departments to reduce unnecessary costs."
Explanation
To rationalize means to explain or justify something by giving reasons that make it seem sensible or acceptable, even if those are not the real reasons. People often rationalize their actions to avoid feeling guilty or embarrassed. It can also mean changing a system, organisation, or process to make it more efficient and practical. This word is used in psychology, business, and everyday conversations.
→ “Rationalize” is the US spelling, whereas “rationalise” is the British spelling.