Definition of Rationalize
Rationalize
ra·tio·nal·ize
Definition/Meaning
(verb)
to try to justify or explain something using logic or reason, even when it is not true;
e.g. I tried to rationalize what I had seen, but I couldn't find a reasonable explanation for it.
(verb)
to offer reasonable explanations for one's/someone's behavior or attitude, especially when these are overly simple or superficial, i.e. broadly, to make excuses for something;
e.g. He tried to rationalize his impulsive shopping trip by saying that he deserved a treat, but he secretly knew that wasn't true.
(verb)
to make a process, company, or industry more productive or efficient by getting rid of unnecessary elements;
e.g. They are planning to rationalize the department and change how it operates.
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