rationalizes

verb

present tense third-person singular of rationalize
as in explains
to give the reason for or cause of rationalized his decision to buy the new car by noting that it was more fuel efficient than his old vehicle

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of rationalizes But since neo-Brandeisian thought rejects economics as a pseudo-science that rationalizes the desires of capital owners, that objection carries little weight. — Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 26 May 2026 But as another voter rationalizes, the sheer size of the ballot will do more harm than good in the long run. — Devon Ivie, Vulture, 12 Mar. 2026 One pattern rationalizes exploitation and disguises harm as the price of progress. — Valerie L. Myers, The Conversation, 8 Jan. 2026 Sole rationalizes that Nike faces a much tougher competitive landscape. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rationalizes
  1. explains
  2. justifies
Verb
  • After speaking to multiple sources familiar with the process — all of whom remain anonymous to protect relationships — The Athletic explains the lay of the land.
    — James McNicholas, New York Times, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Kash explains that turmeric contains a specific type of polyphenol called curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties (and is what gives the spice its bright yellow color).
    — Marie Bladt, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of explains
Verb
  • Each enterprise has to decide what level of availability justifies that investment.
    — Srini Srinivasan, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026
  • The watch justifies its premium and improves upon its two-year-old predecessor with three-day battery life and a blindingly bright screen.
    — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of justifies

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Cite this Entry

“Rationalizes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rationalizes. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on rationalizes

Nglish: Translation of rationalizes for Spanish Speakers

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