justifiable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
justifiable Word Meanings
- able to be justified or defended
- reasonable or valid
- legally recognized as acceptable
justifiable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
justifiable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dʒʌstɪfaɪəbl/
US
/dʒʌstəˈfaɪəbl/
justifiable Word Etymology
(justi- from Latin 'justus' meaning 'just' + -fi- meaning 'to make' + -able), originally from Latin to Old French and then to English. Visualize a judge raising a gavel, declaring a verdict that is fair and just.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Justifiable describes actions or conclusions that can be defended with reasons, evidence, or a sense of fairness. In law, a decision is considered justifiable if there is a legitimate justification that aligns with rules or proportionality. In everyday life, you might call a delay justifiable when there is an important obligation or safety concern behind it. The nuance is not about being perfect, but about having a credible, rational basis that others can understand. It contrasts with arbitrary or merely convenient choices. Understanding justifiable helps you discuss ethics, law, and practical decision making with nuance.
Usage Reminders
- - Use justifiable for defendable reasons, not for wishes.
- - Distinguish from legally required.
- - Pair with concrete evidence or rationale.
- - Avoid overusing for minor matters.
- - Check the audience who must accept the justification.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing justifiable with justified by personal approval
- Thinking it always means legally required
- Believing it implies perfection
- Using it for purely convenient choices
- Mistaking it for fair or moral without evidence
Thinking Differences
In English, justifiable centers on a defendable rationale that others can accept, not a legal mandate. Learners often equate it with legally required or with perfect morality, so practice with varied contexts.
Learning Tips
- Practice with different scenarios where a decision is defendable but not legally required
- Pair justifiable with concrete evidence to strengthen rationale
- Compare with justified to see subtle differences in nuance
- Use in debates about ethics and policy to express prudent choice
- Listen for contexts like delays, refusals, or exemptions
- Keep a small glossary of related terms like warranted and reasonable
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
A.Something that is very beautiful
B.Able to be defended or explained
C.A type of food
D.An action that always leads to punishment
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that correctly uses the word 'justifiable'.
A.His actions were justifiable given the circumstances.
B.The justifiable cat jumped over the fence.
C.It is justifiable to sleep during class.
D.She wore a justifiable dress to the party.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'justifiable'?
A.Magnificent
B.Defensible
C.Unclear
D.Restrictive
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'justifiable'?
A.Just
B.Unjustifiable
C.Right
D.Fair
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where someone's actions might be justifiable?
A.Sometimes people take money from others without permission.
B.A teacher gives homework because they dislike their students.
C.A parent takes away a child's toy to teach them responsibility.
D.Someone tells a lie to avoid hurting a friend's feelings.
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