RATIONALIZE


Meaning of RATIONALIZE in English

transcription, транскрипция: [ ˈrash-nə-ˌlīz, ˈra-shə-nə-ˌlīz ]

verb

( -ized ; -iz·ing )

Date: 1803

transitive verb

1. : to bring into accord with reason or cause something to seem reasonable: as

a. : to substitute a natural for a supernatural explanation of

rationalize a myth

b. : to attribute (one's actions) to rational and creditable motives without analysis of true and especially unconscious motives

rationalized his dislike of his brother

broadly : to create an excuse or more attractive explanation for

rationalize the problem

2. : to free (a mathematical expression) from irrational parts

rationalize a denominator

3. : to apply the principles of scientific management to (as an industry or its operations) for a desired result (as increased efficiency)

intransitive verb

: to provide plausible but untrue reasons for conduct

• ra·tio·nal·iz·able ˌrash-nə-ˈlī-zə-bəl, ˌra-shə-nə-ˈlī- adjective

• ra·tio·nal·i·za·tion ˌrash-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən, ˌra-shə-nə-lə- noun

• ra·tio·nal·iz·er ˈrash-nə-ˌlī-zər, ˈra-shə-nə-ˌlī- noun

Merriam-Webster's Collegiate English vocabulary.      Энциклопедический словарь английского языка Merriam Webster.