adjective
justifiable
jus-tuh-FY-uh-buhl/ˌdʒʌstɪˈfaɪəbl/
Able to be defended as reasonable or right.
Breaking the car window is justifiable to rescue the occupant trapped inside the burning vehicle.
Etymology
The roots behind justify mean “make just,” but the verb developed the sense “show to be right.” Something justifiable can therefore be defended as reasonable or morally acceptable.
In context
it might be morally justifiable to take action against this person if it is the only way to prevent harm to others even though the person themselves is innocent
More examples
- The extra cost is justifiable if the repairs prevent future damage.
- He feels justifiable anger when someone takes credit for his work.
- A minor inconvenience is not a justifiable reason to cancel.
Forms
justifiable
justify verb — To show that something is reasonable or right.
justifiably adverb — With good reason or adequate justification.
Similar words
- defensible
- Emphasizes support through arguments, not necessarily moral rightness.
- reasonable
- Emphasizes sound judgment rather than the ability to defend something.
- warranted
- Emphasizes sufficient grounds in the particular circumstances or evidence.