rationalize

verb
UK: /ˈræʃənəlaɪz/
US: /ˈræʃənəlaɪz/

  1. To invent an explanation or reason for (attitudes, behavior, etc.), sometimes without being aware that these are not the real reasons.

    1. He tried to rationalize his bad behavior.
    2. She attempted to rationalize her decision to quit her job by saying she needed more time for her family.

  2. To make something more efficient, logical, or suitable by simplifying or reorganizing it.

    1. The company needs to rationalize its operations.
    2. They decided to rationalize the production process to cut costs and improve efficiency.

Synonyms

streamline excuse reorganize explain justify
rationalize adjective

  1. Provided with reasons or explanations that make it seem reasonable or acceptable.

    1. The expense was rationalized.
    2. The changes were rationalized as necessary for the company's future success.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "rationalize" in English means: To invent an explanation or reason for (attitudes, behavior, etc.), sometimes without being aware that these are not the real reasons., To make something more efficient, logical, or suitable by simplifying or reorganizing it..

The phonetic transcription of "rationalize" is /ˈræʃənəlaɪz/ in British English and /ˈræʃənəlaɪz/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "rationalize": streamline, excuse, reorganize, explain, justify.

Example usage of "rationalize": "He tried to rationalize his bad behavior.". More examples on the page.