Definition

Not having a good reason or explanation; lacking justification.

Example

The decision to fire him was unjustified and caused a lot of confusion.

Conversation

I can't believe they fired him without any warning.

I know, it seems really unjustified to me.

Yeah, he was such a valuable team member.

Exactly, it just doesn't make sense at all.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unjustified → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "justified" (from Latin "justificare", meaning to make just or right). The word "unjustified" means not made just or lacking justification.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') making something 'just' or 'right' ('justified') — that's why unjustified means lacking justification.

Visually Confused Words