Rationalize

Pronunciation: /ˈræʃ.ən.əˌlaɪz/

Definitions of rationalize

verb to attempt to explain or justify (one's own or another's behavior or attitude) with logical reasons, even if these are not appropriate

Example Sentences

A1 I try to rationalize my decisions by thinking about the pros and cons.

A2 She rationalizes her actions by believing she had no other choice.

B1 It is important to rationalize your expenses in order to save money.

B2 He tried to rationalize his behavior, but deep down he knew it was wrong.

C1 The politician tried to rationalize his controversial decision during the press conference.

C2 She was able to rationalize her conflicting emotions and come to a decision.

Examples of rationalize in a Sentence

formal It is important to rationalize your expenses in order to stay within budget.

informal I need to rationalize why I spent so much money on clothes last month.

slang I had to come up with a way to rationalize buying that new video game.

figurative She tried to rationalize her decision to quit her job by focusing on the potential for personal growth.

Grammatical Forms of rationalize

• past tense: rationalized
• plural: rationalizes
• comparative: more rationalized
• superlative: most rationalized
• present tense: rationalize
• future tense: will rationalize
• perfect tense: has rationalized
• continuous tense: is rationalizing
• singular: rationalize
• positive degree: rationalize
• infinitive: to rationalize
• gerund: rationalizing
• participle: rationalized

Origin and Evolution of rationalize

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'rationalize' originated from the Latin word 'rationalis' which means 'endowed with reason'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in a philosophical context to refer to the process of applying reason to justify or explain something, the word 'rationalize' has evolved to also mean the act of making excuses or justifications for one's behavior or actions.