justify
UK: ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪ | US: ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪ
vt. to show or prove to be right or reasonable
vt. to adjust text spacing to align evenly at the margins
vt. (theology) to declare or make righteous in the sight of God
The word "justify" originates from Latin iustificare, combining iustus (just) and -ficare (to make). It entered Middle English via Old French justifier, retaining the core idea of "making something right or lawful." Over time, its meaning expanded to include textual alignment (e.g., justifying margins) and theological contexts (e.g., being declared righteous). The morphemes reflect a clear cause-effect logic: "to make just."
The lawyer worked hard to justify her client's actions in court.
Can you justify spending so much money on a single item?
The document looks neater when you justify the text.
His faith led him to believe God would justify him despite his mistakes.
The study’s results justify further research into the treatment.