1. to find reasons to justify one's actions or beliefs, especially when they may be wrong or questionable
2. to make something more efficient or logical by reorganizing it
Usage: business; technical
3. to think about something in a logical way

Examples

• She tried to rationalize her decision to quit school by saying it wasn't challenging enough.
• He rationalized his lateness by blaming traffic, though he had left home late.
• The company decided to rationalize its operations by closing unprofitable branches.
• We need to rationalize our filing system to make it more efficient.
• Instead of getting emotional, try to rationalize the situation.
• The manager rationalized the workflow to reduce waste and save time.