Translation guide
The English verb 'justify' covers several related ideas: giving reasons for an action, proving something is right or reasonable, and aligning text. This guide helps learners choose natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
He justified his lateness.
A more formal term meaning to justify or rationalize an action, often used in serious contexts like ethics or law.
He tried to justify his actions.
Means to explain oneself or plead one's case, often in a defensive manner. Less common in everyday speech.
He justified his mistake.
To show that a decision, belief, or action is correct based on facts, logic, or principles.
The standard term for justifying something as right or valid, used in both formal and everyday contexts.
The results justified his efforts.
Literally 'to show grounds/evidence', used when you provide a basis or rationale for something.
Means to support or corroborate, often used when evidence backs up a claim.
In word processing or design, to adjust text so that lines are even on both left and right margins.
The standard term for text justification in software and design.
Please justify this paragraph.
Loanword from English, used in some technical contexts, but less common than the native term.
Justify the text.
When 'justify' means making excuses, using 正当化する can sound too formal or defensive. 言い訳をする is more natural for everyday excuses.
Don't try to justify it.
He justified his opinion.
The data justified his hypothesis.