Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

rationalise

  • a variation of rationalize.
    rationalize
    verb (used with object)
    to ascribe (one's acts, opinions, etc.) to causes that superficially seem reasonable and valid but that actually are unrelated to the true, possibly unconscious and often less creditable or agreeable causes.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

"States need to contain and rationalise their subsidy outgoes, so that such spending does not crowd out more productive expenditure."

From BBC ● Nov. 17, 2025

The government, the committee said in the report, should also review its tax policy, rationalise public expenditure and expand the reach of social protection.

From Reuters ● Nov. 26, 2023

Dr Brazeau added: "Our study shows how there is merit to both theories without accepting one or the other wholesale. Instead, we can rationalise the areas that overlap."

From Science Daily ● Nov. 1, 2023

Mr Baldwin said he had tried to "rationalise" the situation as he thought the guest was just extremely private or had become busy with work.

From BBC ● Jun. 15, 2023

She was resolved to understand herself, to rationalise her overthrow.

From Mount Music by Martin Ross