ˈrashən ə lˌīz, -shnəˌlīz, ˈraash-, ˈraish- verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: rational (I) + -ize
transitive verb
1. : to free (a mathematical equation) from irrational expressions
2.
a. : to make conformable (as an attitude or belief) with rational principles : give a rational explanation of
rationalize one's attitude to life
chauvinists rationalize race prejudice
labored … to rationalize history into a science — H.S.Commager
b. : to substitute a natural for a supernatural explanation of
rationalize the Greek myths
— often used with away
rationalize away all miracles
3. : to attribute (one's actions) to rational and creditable motives without adequate analysis of the true and especially unconscious motives
easy for men of principle to rationalize lapses from high standards where the cause seems to them good — J.A.R.Pimlott
4. : to apply the principles of scientific management to (a factory, industrial process, or industry)
rationalizing the supply lines so as to eliminate duplicate hauling — Fortune
intransitive verb
: to provide plausible but untrue reasons or motives for a course of conduct
urged him to stop rationalizing and admit he acted selfishly
Synonyms: see explain