Justify

verb · Command words

Definition

Support a decision or conclusion with reasons or evidence.

Explanation

You state your position, then give the evidence or reasoning that supports it, and may address alternatives.

Example

Justify your choice of sample size.

In an exam

Command-word meanings can vary between subjects, exam boards and mark schemes, so check your own board's guidance. See Exam Command Words: What Each Instruction Asks For.

Common confusion

Justify asks for support for a view, not a neutral summary.