rationalize

[ˈræʃənəlaɪz]

rationalize Definition

  • 1to try to find reasons to explain your behaviour, decisions, etc., especially when they are bad or wrong
  • 2to make a company, system, or way of working more effective by removing unnecessary costs, processes, or services

Using rationalize: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "rationalize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He tried to rationalize his cheating by saying that his partner was not giving him enough attention.

  • Example

    The company is trying to rationalize its production process to reduce costs.

  • Example

    She tried to rationalize her fear of flying by reading statistics about airplane safety.

rationalize Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for rationalize

Antonyms for rationalize

Phrases with rationalize

  • to try to explain or justify something in order to make it seem less important or serious

    Example

    He tried to rationalize his mistake away by blaming it on his colleagues.

  • to try to convince yourself that something you have done is reasonable or acceptable, even though it may not be

    Example

    She rationalized her decision to quit her job by telling herself that she needed a break.

  • to eliminate something, such as a job or department, by making it seem unnecessary or redundant

    Example

    The company rationalized the marketing department out of existence, claiming that their functions could be performed by other departments.

Origins of rationalize

from French 'rationaliser', from Latin 'rationalis', meaning 'reasonable'

📌

Summary: rationalize in Brief

To 'rationalize' [ˈræʃənəlaɪz] is to find reasons to explain one's behavior, decisions, or actions, especially when they are bad or wrong. It can also refer to making a company, system, or way of working more effective by removing unnecessary costs, processes, or services. Examples include 'He tried to rationalize his cheating by saying that his partner was not giving him enough attention,' and 'The company is trying to rationalize its production process to reduce costs.' Phrases include 'rationalize something away,' 'rationalize something to yourself,' and 'rationalize something out of existence.'