rationalization

noun/ˌræʃənələˈzeɪʃən/

Frequency rank: #17,004 most common English word

Meaning

the act of constructing a logical-sounding excuse to justify behavior or decisions, often hiding the real reason.

Illustration for the English word “rationalization”

Example sentence

His explanation for arriving late seemed like rationalization rather than the truth.

Synonyms & related words

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