justify
verb B2
Plain meaning
give a good reason for something
Exam-register meaning
In academic or exam writing, this is used to discuss give a good reason for something in a more precise way.
In context
naturalThe team tried to justify a decision before the deadline.
examThe passage suggests that institutions may need to justify a decision in order to improve long-term outcomes.
Common collocations
justify a decisionjustify the costjustify an argument
Watch out
Do not pair it with a random object. Learn the full pattern, e.g., “justify a decision”. Also avoid confusing it with “explain”.