meaning - "justify" vs. "rationalize"


Definitions


justify


Source: Wiktionary



To provide an acceptable explanation for.



rationalize


Source: Wiktionary



To justify an immoral act, or illogical behaviour.




Questions


Given the selected definitions of these verbs (I believe this is acceptable as Wiktionary, like AHD: rationalize 2a, lists them first among relevant senses/sub-senses), what is an example situation in which using one verb is more appropriate than using the other?


I find myself needing a verb like these two, then finding it overly difficult to determine which one is best.


Does "rationalize" have a more dramatic connotation?




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