What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
justify
Example
I need to justify my absence from work with a valid reason. [justify: verb]
Example
The author tries to justify his argument with supporting evidence. [justify: verb]
defend
Example
The lawyer will defend his client against the charges. [defend: verb]
Example
She defended her opinion in the debate with strong arguments. [defended: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Defend is more commonly used than justify in everyday language. Defend is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while justify is less common and often used in academic or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between justify and defend?
Both justify and defend can be used in formal and informal contexts, but justify is more commonly used in academic or professional settings, where it is necessary to provide evidence or reasons to support a claim or decision.
