justifiable

adjective

jus·​ti·​fi·​able ˈjə-stə-ˌfī-ə-bəl How to pronounce justifiable (audio)
: capable of being justified : excusable
justifiable family prideCurrent Biography
justifiably adverb

Examples of justifiable in a Sentence

had justifiable reasons for leaving early
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Twenty-six years ago last week, the Philadelphia Eagles hired a largely obscure Green Bay assistant coach named Andy Reid as their head coach to justifiable skepticism. Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 19 Jan. 2025 Despite this justifiable excitement the road toward comprehensive and pro-growth crypto regulation remains an uphill endeavor for crypto investors and enthusiasts. Sean Stein Smith, Forbes, 19 Jan. 2025 Is outgoing Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's recommendation for an additional $55 billion in defense spending justifiable? Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 16 Jan. 2025 But if his actions weren’t justifiable, the jury could also say, ‘Hey, [his] actions didn’t kill him. Michael Ruiz, Fox News, 22 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for justifiable

Word History

First Known Use

1561, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of justifiable was in 1561

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Cite this Entry

“Justifiable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/justifiable. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Legal Definition

justifiable

adjective
jus·​ti·​fi·​able ˌjəs-tə-ˈfī-ə-bəl How to pronounce justifiable (audio)
: capable of being justified
justifiable reliance
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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