正当化

• Reading: せいとうか
• Romaji: seitouka
• Kanji breakdown: 正 (sei/shou) — correct, right; 当 (tou) — appropriate, hit; 化 (ka) — change, -isation
• Pronunciation: /seː.toː.ka/

Meaning

Justification; legitimisation. The act of making something appear right or reasonable.

A noun that also functions as a する verb (正当化する, to justify). Used when someone attempts to make their actions, decisions, or beliefs seem legitimate or morally acceptable. Often carries a critical or sceptical nuance, implying the justification may not be genuine.

Examples

1. 自分の失敗を正当化しようとしても無駄だ。 There's no point trying to justify your own failures.
2. 暴力の正当化は決して許されない。 Justifying violence is never acceptable.
3. 彼女は遅刻の理由を正当化するのに必死だった。 She was desperate to justify her reason for being late.

Usage Guide

Context: debate, ethics, media

Tone: critical

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 正当化. 正 (sei) means correct, 当 (tou) means appropriate, and 化 (ka) is a suffix meaning '-isation.' Together they mean 'making something correct/appropriate.'

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated