rationalize
Rationalize (verb) means to make something rational, logical, or more efficient — often by removing unnecessary parts. Example: “The company rationalized its product line, cutting a dozen weak sellers.”
How to use rationalize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither making something more logical and streamlined, or making excuses to justify a decision you already made for other reasons.
Don't confuse rationalizing (making excuses) with reasoning (working something out logically) — rationalizing usually happens after the fact, to defend a choice.
Word forms
rationalized past tense, rationalizes singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The company _____ its product line, cutting a dozen weak sellers.
Etymology
From French rationaliser, built from rational plus the verb-forming suffix -ize.
Related words
Rhymes for rationalize
See all rhymes for rationalize →Frequently asked questions
What does “rationalize” mean?
The word “rationalize” means to make something rational, logical, or more efficient — often by removing unnecessary parts. In plain terms, either making something more logical and streamlined, or making excuses to justify a decision you already made for other reasons.
How do you pronounce “rationalize”?
“Rationalize” is pronounced RA-shuh-nuh-lyz (/ˈɹæʃənəlaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “rationalize” in a sentence?
Here is “rationalize” used in a sentence: “The company rationalized its product line, cutting a dozen weak sellers.”
What part of speech is “rationalize”?
“Rationalize” is a verb.
Where does the word “rationalize” come from?
The word “rationalize” comes from French. From French rationaliser, built from rational plus the verb-forming suffix -ize.
How many meanings does “rationalize” have?
“Rationalize” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make something rational, logical, or more efficient — often by removing unnecessary parts.