Rationalize

/ˈræʃ.ən.əl.aɪz/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To attempt to explain or justify behavior or an attitude with logical reasons, even if these are not appropriate.

She tried to rationalize her decision to quit her job by saying it was for her mental health.

To make (an organization or process) more efficient by reorganizing it.

The company decided to rationalize its operations to cut costs and improve productivity.

To convert a quantity or expression into a rational form.

In mathematics, we often rationalize the denominator of a fraction to simplify calculations.

From the Latin 'rationalis' meaning 'reasonable'.

rationalize one's actions:

to provide a reasonable explanation for one's behavior.

rationalized thinking:

thought processes that focus on logic and reason.

to justify poor choices

He's always trying to rationalize his binge-watching habits.

to make excuses

Stop rationalizing and just admit you were wrong.