Rationalized

To rationalize is to provide a justification or excuse for an action, belief, or feeling, even if that justification is not necessarily logical or true. It often involves creating a seemingly logical explanation to make something more acceptable, especially something questionable or otherwise difficult to accept. This process helps individuals cope with difficult situations or behaviors by creating a sense of order and understanding, even if the underlying motives or consequences are ignored or distorted. Rationalizing often involves minimizing negative aspects and emphasizing positive ones, creating a skewed perception of reality to protect one's self-esteem or maintain consistency with existing beliefs.

Rationalized meaning with examples

• Sarah Rationalized her constant late-night online shopping sprees by telling herself that she was simply taking advantage of limited-time offers and supporting the local businesses. This conveniently overlooked the growing credit card debt and the accumulation of unwanted items she rarely used. The rationale served to ease her guilt and allow her to continue the behavior.
• After being rejected from his dream job, John Rationalized the outcome by convincing himself that the company culture wasn't a good fit and that he was better off pursuing other opportunities. This helped him protect his ego and avoid confronting feelings of inadequacy or failure. He focused on the positives and found comfort in this justification.
• The government Rationalized its controversial surveillance program by arguing it was necessary for national security and to protect the public from potential threats. This explanation focused on the benefits of security and downplayed concerns about the invasion of privacy and civil liberties, thus easing public acceptance.
• Maria Rationalized her unhealthy diet, rich in sugary and fatty foods, by saying that she worked a stressful job and deserved to indulge herself occasionally. She minimized the long-term health consequences and ignored the growing evidence of her weight gain and low energy levels. This allowed her to continue enjoying the comfort food.