rationalize away
Definition
Verb: - To explain or justify (something, especially a behavior, belief, or event) using seemingly logical or reasonable arguments, often to avoid acknowledging the true, often less acceptable, reasons or causes. This typically involves dismissing or minimizing the significance of something by providing an alternative, more palatable explanation.
Usage and Examples
The verb "rationalize away" is used to describe the act of making something seem less important, less real, or less problematic by inventing a logical-sounding excuse for it.
- Example 1: He tried to his guilt by telling himself that everyone cheats on the test sometimes.
- Example 2: You can't just her unkind comments; they were hurtful and intentional.
- Example 3: Investors often early warning signs of a market downturn.
Advanced Usage
- Psychological Context: In psychology, this phrase describes a common defense mechanism where individuals justify uncomfortable feelings, behaviors, or impulses with logical, socially acceptable reasons to avoid the true, underlying anxiety or guilt.
- Example: After eating the entire cake, she rationalized away her lapse in diet by saying she needed the energy.
Variants and Related Words
- Rationalize (verb): To attempt to explain or justify (one's own or another's behavior or attitude) with logical, plausible reasons, even if these are not true or appropriate. "Rationalize away" is a more specific phrasal verb emphasizing the act of dismissing or eliminating a concern through rationalization.
- Rationalization (noun): The action of attempting to explain or justify behavior or an attitude with logical reasons.
Synonyms
- Explain away
- Justify
- Dismiss
- Minimize
- Gloss over
Related Phrasal Verbs / Constructions
- Explain away: A very close synonym, meaning to get rid of or minimize (a problem or doubt) by giving an explanation.
- Example: He explained away his lateness with a story about a traffic jam.
Verb
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substitute a natural for a supernatural explanation of
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you can rationalize away all the strange noises you hear--there is no poltergeist in the house!
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