rechtfertigen

Rechtfertigen is a German verb meaning to provide reasons or arguments that show something is right, proper, or permissible, or to defend against an accusation. It can refer to giving grounds for a decision, action, belief, or behavior, as well as to defending oneself in a controversy.

Etymology and usage notes: the word combines recht (right, just) with fertigen (to make or prepare). In everyday language, rechtfertigen is used for both moral and legal contexts, as well as for non-technical arguments. The corresponding noun is Rechtfertigung, often used for the act of justification or the justification itself.

Common constructions and examples: someone can rechtfertigen something, e.g., "Er rechtfertigt sein Vorgehen mit der Notwendigkeit der Maßnahme" (he justifies his course of action with the necessity of the measure). A person can sich rechtfertigen, e.g., "Sie musste sich vor dem Vorstand rechtfertigen." A justification can be supported by Belege or reasons, as in "Die Ergebnisse rechtfertigen die Methodik." In legal contexts, Rechtfertigung may refer to a legally acceptable defense.

Differences from related terms: Begründung denotes grounds or reasoning in a more neutral sense, while Rechtfertigung emphasizes legitimacy or defense against criticism. Enschuldigen bedeutet to excuse or apologize, which is distinct from providing a justification.

Philosophical and epistemic use: in philosophy and logic, Rechtfertigung refers to justification of beliefs or epistemic positions, focusing on why a belief is warranted rather than on practical defense.

See also: Begründung, Entschuldigung, Rechtfertigung im Recht, moralische Rechtfertigung.