At the A1 level, '합리화' (Hap-ri-hwa) is a very difficult word because it is abstract. You don't need to use it yet! It means 'making an excuse that sounds smart.' Think of it like this: You want to eat chocolate. You say, 'I need sugar for my brain.' That is 합리화. At this level, just remember that '합리' means 'reason' or 'logic.' You might see it in very advanced textbooks, but for now, focus on simpler words like '이유' (reason) or '핑계' (excuse). If you hear someone say it, they are usually talking about someone making a 'smart' excuse for doing something they shouldn't do. It is a noun, so it usually goes with '해요' (합리화해요).
At the A2 level, you can start to recognize '합리화' as a more formal version of '핑계' (excuse). When you study, you might hear a teacher say, 'Don't rationalize not doing your homework.' In Korean, that's '숙제 안 하는 걸 합리화하지 마세요.' It's a combination of '합리' (rational/logic) and '화' (-ization). You can use it when you want to sound more serious than just using the word for 'excuse.' It is often used as '자기합리화' (self-rationalization), which is when you lie to yourself. For example, 'I bought this expensive bag because it will last forever'—that's self-rationalization. Just remember: it's a 'smart-sounding excuse.'
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '합리화' in sentences about habits and personal choices. You will notice it frequently in psychological contexts or self-improvement articles. It's a key word for describing why people do things they know are wrong. You should know the verb form '합리화하다' (to rationalize) and the passive form '합리화되다' (to be rationalized). For example, '그는 자신의 실수를 합리화했다' (He rationalized his mistake). You should also understand its use in business to mean 'making things efficient,' like '경영 합리화' (management rationalization). This level is where you start to distinguish between a simple '핑계' (excuse) and a '합리화' (a logical-sounding justification).
At the B2 level, you are expected to use '합리화' accurately in debates and formal writing. You should understand the nuance that '합리화' often implies a degree of self-deception or a 'euphemism' for something negative (like restructuring). You should be able to compare it with '정당화' (justification). While '정당화' is about being 'right' (moral/legal), '합리화' is about being 'logical' (even if it's a lie). You'll encounter this word in news reports about company downsizing or political scandals. You should also be comfortable with the pronunciation [함니화], following the nasalization rule where 'ㅂ' becomes 'ㅁ' before 'ㄹ'.
At the C1 level, you should have a deep understanding of the psychological and philosophical implications of '합리화'. You can discuss '자기합리화' as a defense mechanism in detail. You should also recognize it in high-level academic or economic texts where it refers to the 'rationalization' of systems, meaning the application of scientific management to increase productivity. You should be able to use complex structures like '합리화의 기제' (mechanism of rationalization) or '인지 부조화를 해결하기 위한 합리화' (rationalization to resolve cognitive dissonance). Your usage should reflect the subtle negative tone it often carries in social criticism.
At the C2 level, '합리화' is a tool for nuanced social and psychological analysis. You can use it to deconstruct arguments in literature, politics, or philosophy. You understand how '합리화' functions as a societal tool to maintain the status quo or how it appears in the 'rationalization of society' (Max Weber's concept, often translated as 사회의 합리화). You can use it fluently in any context, from a highly technical business restructuring plan to a deep psychological analysis of a character's motivations in a novel. You are also aware of its Hanja roots and how they interact with other related terms like '합리론' (rationalism) or '실용화' (practical application).

합리화 در ۳۰ ثانیه

  • 합리화 (Rationalization) means making something look logical, often to excuse bad behavior.
  • It is commonly used as '자기합리화' (self-rationalization) to describe lying to oneself.
  • In business, it refers to '경영 합리화' (management rationalization), meaning improving efficiency.
  • It carries a negative nuance in social contexts but a neutral/positive one in business.

The term 합리화 (Hap-ri-hwa) is a fascinating Korean noun that translates most directly to 'rationalization' or 'justification.' At its core, it refers to the psychological or logical process of making something appear reasonable, even if the underlying motive or action is questionable. In daily Korean life, you will encounter this word in two primary contexts: the psychological defense mechanism where one makes excuses for their own failures, and the business/economic context where it refers to 'streamlining' or 'improving efficiency' (often called 'management rationalization' or 경영 합리화). For English speakers, understanding the nuance between these two is key to mastering the word.

Psychological Context
This is the most common usage in interpersonal conversations. It describes the act of finding plausible reasons to explain away one's mistakes, laziness, or moral lapses. It is often used with a slightly critical tone, as if to say 'You are just making excuses to feel better about yourself.'
Business/Structural Context
In formal news or corporate settings, '합리화' refers to making a system more logical or efficient. For example, '인력 합리화' (workforce rationalization) is a common euphemism for restructuring or layoffs intended to improve company performance.

“다이어트 중이지만 오늘만 먹는 것은 스트레스 해소를 위한 합리화일 뿐이야.” (I'm on a diet, but eating just for today is just a rationalization to relieve stress.)

When you hear a Korean friend say "자기합리화 하지 마" (Don't rationalize yourself), they are calling you out on your excuses. It is a powerful word because it suggests that while your logic might sound 'rational' (합리적) on the surface, it is actually a shield for an underlying truth you don't want to face. This duality—the appearance of logic vs. the reality of an excuse—is the essence of the word.

“기업은 생존을 위해 경영 합리화를 추진하고 있습니다.” (The company is pursuing management rationalization for survival.)

Furthermore, the word is built from the Hanja '合' (fit/match), '理' (reason/logic), and '化' (change/become). Literally, it is the process of 'becoming matching with reason.' Whether that process is honest (making a factory more efficient) or dishonest (making a lie sound like the truth) depends entirely on the context of the sentence.

“그는 자신의 게으름을 합리화하기 위해 온갖 핑계를 댔다.” (He made all sorts of excuses to rationalize his laziness.)

Common Collocations
합리화를 시도하다 (to attempt rationalization), 합리화에 빠지다 (to fall into rationalization), 철저한 합리화 (thorough rationalization).

“소비자들은 비싼 물건을 산 후 자신의 선택을 합리화하는 경향이 있다.” (Consumers tend to rationalize their choices after buying expensive items.)

“행정 절차의 합리화가 시급합니다.” (The rationalization of administrative procedures is urgent.)

Using '합리화' correctly requires understanding its grammatical behavior as a noun and its transformation into a verb. Most commonly, it is paired with the verb '하다' (to do) to form '합리화하다' (to rationalize). It is an object-taking verb, meaning you usually rationalize *something* (something-을/를 합리화하다).

Basic Verb Form
[Target] + 을/를 + 합리화하다. Example: "실수를 합리화하다" (To rationalize a mistake).
Reflexive Form
자기합리화 (Self-rationalization). This is a very common compound noun used to describe the act of lying to oneself.

“그는 늦잠을 잔 이유를 합리화하려고 노력했다.” (He tried to rationalize the reason he overslept.)

In formal writing, such as academic papers or news reports, '합리화' is often used as a subject or part of a larger noun phrase. For instance, '합리화의 과정' (the process of rationalization) or '합리화가 필요하다' (rationalization is necessary). When discussing economics, you will see '경영 합리화 조치' (management rationalization measures).

“자신의 행동을 합리화하는 것은 인간의 본성이다.” (Rationalizing one's actions is human nature.)

Let's look at more complex sentence structures. Often, '합리화' is used to show a contrast between what someone *should* do and what they *actually* do. It highlights the gap between reality and the stories we tell ourselves.

“거짓말을 합리화하기 시작하면 끝이 없다.” (Once you start rationalizing lies, there is no end.)

Sentence Pattern: ~기 위한 합리화
This means 'rationalization for [doing something]'. Example: "포기하기 위한 합리화" (Rationalization for giving up).

“이것은 단순한 변명이 아니라 고도의 심리적 합리화입니다.” (This is not a simple excuse, but a high-level psychological rationalization.)

In a debate or discussion, you can use the word to challenge someone's logic. By saying "그건 단지 합리화일 뿐입니다" (That is merely a rationalization), you are dismissing their argument as a self-serving excuse rather than a valid point. It is a sharp but professional way to criticize an argument.

“우리는 과거의 잘못을 합리화해서는 안 된다.” (We must not rationalize the mistakes of the past.)

'합리화' is a word you will encounter in diverse settings, from the therapy room to the boardroom, and even in casual conversations among friends. Because it bridges the gap between everyday 'excuses' and formal 'logic,' its frequency is high in both spoken and written Korean.

In News and Media
You will frequently see this in headlines regarding the economy. Phrases like '공공기관 합리화' (Rationalization of public institutions) refer to government efforts to cut waste and improve performance. In political news, it might be used to criticize a politician for '합리화'ing a controversial policy.
In Psychology and Self-Help
Korean culture places a strong emphasis on '마음 공부' (mind study) and self-improvement. Books and talk shows often discuss how '자기합리화' prevents personal growth. You might hear a psychologist on a YouTube channel explaining how we use rationalization to avoid the pain of cognitive dissonance.

“이번 구조조정은 경영 합리화의 일환으로 결정되었습니다.” (This restructuring was decided as part of management rationalization.)

In casual social settings, '합리화' is used to tease friends. If a friend buys a very expensive pair of shoes and says "They were on sale, so I actually saved money!", you might laugh and say "합리화 오지네" (Your rationalization is incredible/extreme - *slangy*). It's a way to point out that someone is clearly trying to justify a guilty pleasure.

“너 지금 쇼핑한 거 합리화하는 거지?” (You're rationalizing your shopping right now, aren't you?)

In Korean dramas (K-Dramas), '합리화' is a common trope in dialogue. A villain might use a long speech to '합리화' their crimes, claiming they did it for the greater good. The protagonist might then counter by saying, "그건 당신의 비겁함을 합리화하는 것뿐이야" (That's just rationalizing your cowardice).

“범죄를 어떤 이유로도 합리화할 수는 없습니다.” (Crime cannot be rationalized for any reason.)

Workplace Usage
In meetings, you might suggest '업무 합리화' (work rationalization) to mean simplifying a complicated process. It sounds much more professional than just saying 'let's make it easier.'

“불필요한 지출을 줄이는 것이 진정한 예산 합리화입니다.” (Reducing unnecessary spending is true budget rationalization.)

Learning '합리화' involves avoiding a few common pitfalls that English speakers often encounter. The most significant mistake is confusing '합리화' (rationalization) with '정당화' (justification) and '변명' (excuse).

Mistake 1: 합리화 vs. 정당화
'정당화' (Jeong-dang-hwa) is about making something 'right' or 'just' (moral/legal). '합리화' is about making something 'logical' or 'reasonable' (intellectual/psychological). If you say you 'rationalized' killing someone, it sounds like a psychological explanation. If you say you 'justified' it, it sounds like you're claiming it was the right thing to do.
Mistake 2: 합리화 vs. 변명
'변명' (Byeon-myeong) is a simple excuse. It's external. "I'm late because of traffic" is a '변명'. '합리화' is more internal and complex. It involves a whole logical framework to protect your ego. "I'm late because I work too hard and needed the extra 5 minutes of sleep to be productive" is '합리화'.

“이것은 단순한 변명이 아니라 자기합리화입니다.” (This is not a simple excuse, but self-rationalization.)

Another mistake is using '합리화' in a purely positive sense without context. While '경영 합리화' is positive for a company, '합리화' in personal behavior almost always carries a negative connotation of self-deception. If you want to say you 'made a logical decision,' use '합리적인 결정을 내리다' instead of '결정을 합리화하다' (which sounds like you're making excuses for a bad decision).

“그는 자신의 폭력을 사랑으로 합리화했다.” (He rationalized his violence as love.)

Grammatically, learners sometimes forget that '합리화' is a noun. You cannot say "나는 합리화했다" without the object marker if the object is present, though in casual speech it's often dropped. The most natural form is "[Something]을/를 합리화하다." Also, remember that '합리화' is never used for mathematical 'rationalization' (like rationalizing a denominator); that uses different terminology (유리화).

“성공을 위해 수단을 합리화하지 마세요.” (Do not rationalize the means for the sake of success.)

Pronunciation Mistake
Some learners pronounce '합리' as [hap-ri]. Due to Korean phonological rules (nasalization), it is actually pronounced [함니] (ham-ni). So, '합리화' is pronounced [함니화].

“그의 주장은 합리화에 불과하다.” (His argument is nothing more than a rationalization.)

To truly master '합리화,' you must see where it sits among its synonyms and near-synonyms. Korean has many words for 'excuses' and 'reasons,' each with a specific flavor.

정당화 (Justification)
As mentioned, this focuses on morality and justice. Use this when someone is trying to prove they are 'in the right.'
Example: "전쟁을 정당화할 수는 없다." (War cannot be justified.)
변명 (Excuse)
This is a broader, simpler word. It's what you say to avoid blame.
Example: "변명은 이제 그만해." (Stop with the excuses already.)
핑계 (Pretext/Excuse)
Often used for small, everyday excuses or 'white lies' to avoid doing something.
Example: "바쁘다는 핑계로 연락을 안 했다." (I didn't call, using being busy as an excuse.)
구실 (Pretext/Reason)
A reason given in order to hide the real intention. Often used in political or strategic contexts.
Example: "그는 돈을 빌릴 구실을 찾고 있다." (He is looking for a pretext to borrow money.)

“그것은 합리화가 아니라 명백한 거짓말입니다.” (That is not a rationalization, but an obvious lie.)

When you want to express 'rationalization' in a positive, efficient way (like in business), alternatives include '효율화' (making efficient) or '최적화' (optimization). If you are talking about 'rationality' as a trait, use '합리성'.

“업무 프로세스의 합리화를 통해 비용을 절감했습니다.” (We reduced costs through the rationalization of work processes.)

“자기합리화는 성장을 가로막는 가장 큰 장애물입니다.” (Self-rationalization is the biggest obstacle blocking growth.)

In academic contexts, you might see '이론적 합리화' (theoretical rationalization), which means providing a logical basis for a theory. In this case, it is neutral and simply describes a logical process.

“이 정책은 경제적 합리화를 바탕으로 설계되었습니다.” (This policy was designed based on economic rationalization.)

چقدر رسمی است؟

نکته جالب

The character 理 (Ri) originally referred to the veins or patterns in jade. It eventually came to mean the 'underlying logic' or 'principle' of things. So, '합리화' is like trying to force a new pattern onto a stone.

راهنمای تلفظ

UK /hɐm.ni.βwa̠/
US /hɑm.ni.hwɑ/
Stress is usually equal across syllables in Korean, but the 'hwa' can be slightly emphasized in formal speech.
هم‌قافیه با
최적화 (Choe-jeok-hwa) 민주화 (Min-ju-hwa) 자동화 (Ja-dong-hwa) 전문화 (Jeon-mun-hwa) 활성화 (Hwal-seong-hwa) 시각화 (Si-gak-hwa) 표준화 (Pyo-jun-hwa) 현실화 (Hyeon-sil-hwa)
خطاهای رایج
  • Pronouncing it as [Hap-ri-hwa] instead of [Ham-ni-hwa].
  • Forgetting the 'h' sound in 'hwa'.
  • Making the 'ni' sound like 'ri'.
  • Pausing too long between 'hap' and 'ri'.
  • Pronouncing 'hwa' like 'wa' (common in fast speech, but incorrect in formal settings).

سطح دشواری

خواندن 4/5

Requires understanding of Hanja-based abstract nouns and context.

نوشتن 5/5

Difficult to use naturally without confusing it with '정당화' or '변명'.

صحبت کردن 4/5

Pronunciation [Ham-ni-hwa] is a common trap for beginners.

گوش دادن 4/5

Nasalization makes it sound different from its spelling.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

이유 (Reason) 핑계 (Excuse) 논리 (Logic) 바꾸다 (To change) 생각 (Thought)

بعداً یاد بگیرید

정당화 (Justification) 객관화 (Objectification) 구체화 (Materialization) 최적화 (Optimization) 효율성 (Efficiency)

پیشرفته

인지 부조화 (Cognitive Dissonance) 방어 기제 (Defense Mechanism) 이데올로기 (Ideology) 실증주의 (Positivism) 관료제 (Bureaucracy)

گرامر لازم

Nasalization (비음화)

합리 [함니], 합리화 [함니화]

-화 (Suffix for -ization)

자동 + 화 = 자동화 (Automation)

-기 위해 (In order to)

합리화하기 위해 핑계를 댔다.

-에 불과하다 (Nothing but)

그것은 합리화에 불과하다.

-라는 명목 아래 (Under the pretext of)

합리화라는 명목 아래...

مثال‌ها بر اساس سطح

1

이것은 합리화입니다.

This is a rationalization.

Simple noun + 이다 (to be).

2

합리화하지 마세요.

Don't rationalize.

Verb + 지 마세요 (Don't...).

3

그는 합리화를 해요.

He rationalizes.

Noun + 을/를 해요 (to do).

4

자기합리화는 나빠요.

Self-rationalization is bad.

Subject marker -는 used for general truths.

5

왜 합리화해요?

Why do you rationalize?

Interrogative '왜' (why).

6

합리화는 어려워요.

Rationalization is difficult.

Adjective '어렵다' (to be difficult).

7

너무 합리화하지 마.

Don't rationalize too much.

Informal '지 마' ending.

8

그건 합리화예요.

That is a rationalization.

Polite ending -예요.

1

잘못을 합리화하면 안 돼요.

You shouldn't rationalize your mistakes.

-면 안 돼요 (You shouldn't...).

2

자신의 행동을 합리화하지 마세요.

Don't rationalize your actions.

Object marker -을/를.

3

그는 핑계를 합리화라고 생각해요.

He thinks an excuse is a rationalization.

-라고 생각해요 (think that...).

4

쇼핑을 합리화하기 위해 세일이라고 말해요.

To rationalize shopping, I say it's a sale.

-기 위해 (in order to).

5

합리화하는 버릇이 있어요.

I have a habit of rationalizing.

Noun-modifying form -는 + 버릇 (habit).

6

친구의 합리화를 들었어요.

I heard my friend's rationalization.

Past tense -었/았습니다.

7

이것은 단순한 합리화일 뿐입니다.

This is just a simple rationalization.

-일 뿐이다 (to be just/only).

8

우리는 합리화를 멈춰야 해요.

We must stop the rationalization.

-아야/어야 해요 (must/should).

1

실패를 합리화하는 것은 성장에 도움이 안 됩니다.

Rationalizing failure does not help with growth.

-는 것은 (the act of...).

2

그 회사는 경영 합리화를 통해 살아남았습니다.

The company survived through management rationalization.

-를 통해 (through/via).

3

사람들은 종종 자신의 선택을 합리화하곤 합니다.

People often tend to rationalize their choices.

-곤 하다 (to do something habitually/often).

4

그의 말은 자기합리화에 불과해 보였다.

His words seemed like nothing more than self-rationalization.

-에 불과하다 (nothing more than) + -어 보이다 (seem like).

5

거짓말을 합리화하려고 하지 마세요.

Don't try to rationalize a lie.

-으려고 하다 (to try/intend to).

6

심리학에서는 이것을 합리화라고 부릅니다.

In psychology, this is called rationalization.

-라고 부르다 (to call something...).

7

합리화가 너무 심하면 현실을 볼 수 없어요.

If rationalization is too extreme, you can't see reality.

-면 (if/when).

8

우리는 업무 합리화 방안을 논의했습니다.

We discussed measures for work rationalization.

Compound noun: 업무 합리화 방안.

1

그는 자신의 폭력적인 행동을 정당한 방어로 합리화했다.

He rationalized his violent behavior as legitimate defense.

-로 합리화하다 (rationalize as...).

2

경영 합리화라는 명목 아래 대규모 해고가 단행되었다.

Mass layoffs were carried out under the pretext of management rationalization.

-라는 명목 아래 (under the name/pretext of).

3

인지 부조화를 해결하기 위해 인간은 합리화를 선택한다.

To resolve cognitive dissonance, humans choose rationalization.

Formal academic tone.

4

자신의 게으름을 합리화하는 논리는 매우 정교했다.

The logic used to rationalize his laziness was very sophisticated.

Adjective modifying noun: 정교한 논리.

5

그녀는 소비 습관을 합리화하기 위해 온갖 이유를 댔다.

She gave all sorts of reasons to rationalize her spending habits.

온갖 (all sorts of).

6

합리화는 때로 정신 건강을 지키는 방어 기제가 된다.

Rationalization sometimes becomes a defense mechanism that protects mental health.

-가 되다 (to become).

7

비윤리적인 행위를 합리화하려는 시도는 비판받아야 한다.

Attempts to rationalize unethical acts must be criticized.

-어야 한다 (must/should) in passive voice.

8

이 보고서는 생산 공정의 합리화를 제안하고 있다.

This report suggests the rationalization of the production process.

Present progressive: -고 있다.

1

역사적 비극을 합리화하려는 시도는 역사를 왜곡하는 것이다.

Attempting to rationalize historical tragedies is distorting history.

Gerund construction: -하는 것이다.

2

그의 주장은 논리적 결함을 감추기 위한 고도의 합리화에 불과하다.

His argument is nothing but a sophisticated rationalization to hide logical flaws.

-기 위한 (for the purpose of).

3

현대 사회의 합리화 과정은 인간 소외 현상을 초래하기도 한다.

The rationalization process of modern society sometimes leads to human alienation.

-하기도 한다 (sometimes does...).

4

자아를 보호하기 위한 무의식적인 합리화가 작용하고 있었다.

An unconscious rationalization to protect the ego was at work.

Unconscious: 무의식적인.

5

그 정책의 경제적 합리화는 사회적 형평성을 고려하지 않았다.

The economic rationalization of that policy did not consider social equity.

Past tense negative: -지 않았다.

6

우리는 편견을 합리화하는 사회적 담론을 경계해야 한다.

We must be wary of social discourses that rationalize prejudice.

Wary of: 경계해야 한다.

7

그 작가는 인물의 내면적 합리화를 치밀하게 묘사했다.

The author meticulously depicted the character's internal rationalization.

Adverb: 치밀하게 (meticulously).

8

권력자들은 자신의 지배를 합리화하기 위해 이데올로기를 이용한다.

Those in power use ideology to rationalize their rule.

Ideology: 이데올로기.

1

도덕적 해이를 합리화하는 논리는 공동체의 근간을 흔들 수 있다.

Logic that rationalizes moral hazard can shake the foundations of a community.

Moral hazard: 도덕적 해이.

2

베버는 서구 근대화의 핵심을 '세계의 합리화'로 파악했다.

Weber identified the core of Western modernization as the 'rationalization of the world'.

Passive/Identified as: -로 파악했다.

3

관료제의 합리화는 효율성을 증대시키지만 동시에 비인간화를 야기한다.

The rationalization of bureaucracy increases efficiency but simultaneously causes dehumanization.

Simultaneously: 동시에.

4

그 철학자는 이성이 어떻게 욕망을 합리화하는지 분석했다.

The philosopher analyzed how reason rationalizes desire.

Indirect question: -는지.

5

집단적 합리화는 조직의 눈을 멀게 하여 파멸로 이끌기도 한다.

Collective rationalization can blind an organization and lead it to ruin.

Blind someone: 눈을 멀게 하다.

6

자본의 논리에 따른 공간의 합리화는 도시의 역사를 지워버린다.

The rationalization of space according to the logic of capital erases the history of the city.

According to: -에 따른.

7

그 논문은 범죄자의 자기합리화 기제를 실증적으로 규명했다.

The thesis empirically identified the self-rationalization mechanisms of criminals.

Empirically: 실증적으로.

8

우리는 기술적 합리화가 인간의 실존적 가치를 훼손하지 않도록 해야 한다.

We must ensure that technical rationalization does not undermine human existential values.

-지 않도록 하다 (ensure that... not...).

مترادف‌ها

정당화 자기변명 이유 달기 논리화

متضادها

반성 비판

ترکیب‌های رایج

자기합리화
경영 합리화
행동을 합리화하다
실수를 합리화하다
합리화의 과정
철저한 합리화
예산 합리화
합리화에 급급하다
논리적 합리화
인력 합리화

عبارات رایج

합리화하지 마

— Stop making excuses. Don't try to justify yourself.

거짓말한 거 합리화하지 마.

그건 합리화일 뿐이야

— That's just a rationalization. It's not the real reason.

네가 안 온 건 합리화일 뿐이야.

합리화의 달인

— A master of rationalization. Someone who is very good at making excuses.

그는 정말 합리화의 달인이다.

자기합리화의 늪

— The swamp of self-rationalization. Getting stuck in a cycle of excuses.

자기합리화의 늪에서 빠져나와야 해.

합리화할 수 없다

— Cannot be rationalized. There is no logical excuse for it.

이런 폭력은 어떤 이유로도 합리화할 수 없다.

합리화에 불과하다

— It is nothing more than a rationalization.

그의 긴 설명은 합리화에 불과했다.

합리화를 시도하다

— To attempt to rationalize something.

그는 교묘하게 합리화를 시도했다.

합리화가 필요하다

— Rationalization is needed (usually in a business context).

시스템의 전면적인 합리화가 필요하다.

합리화에 빠지다

— To fall into the trap of rationalizing.

그는 어느새 합리화에 빠져 있었다.

합리화의 도구

— A tool for rationalization.

종교가 합리화의 도구로 쓰여서는 안 된다.

اغلب اشتباه گرفته می‌شود با

합리화 vs 정당화

Justification. Making something 'right' vs. 'logical'.

합리화 vs 유리화

Rationalization in math (e.g., of a denominator).

합리화 vs 변명

A simple excuse, usually simpler than '합리화'.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"눈 가리고 아웅"

— To cover one's eyes and say 'meow' (like a cat). This means to try to deceive someone with an obvious, shallow excuse.

그의 합리화는 눈 가리고 아웅 하는 격이다.

Colloquial
"코에 걸면 코걸이 귀에 걸면 귀걸이"

— If you hang it on the nose, it's a nose ring; if you hang it on the ear, it's an earring. Meaning a logic or rationalization that can be interpreted however one wants.

그의 합리화는 코에 걸면 코걸이 귀에 걸면 귀걸이 식이다.

Idiomatic
"핑계 없는 무덤 없다"

— There is no grave without an excuse. Everyone has a reason (or rationalization) for their failures or life choices.

핑계 없는 무덤 없다더니, 그의 합리화도 대단하네.

Proverb
"자기 꾀에 자기가 넘어간다"

— To be caught in one's own trap/logic. Often happens when rationalizations become too complex.

합리화를 계속하다가 결국 자기 꾀에 자기가 넘어갔다.

Neutral
"손바닥으로 하늘 가리기"

— Trying to cover the sky with one's palm. Using a small rationalization to hide a massive truth.

그렇게 합리화하는 건 손바닥으로 하늘 가리기야.

Idiomatic
"아전인수 (我田引水)"

— Drawing water to one's own field. Interpreting or rationalizing things only to one's own advantage.

그의 합리화는 전형적인 아전인수 격이다.

Hanja Idiom
"견강부회 (牽強附會)"

— Stretching logic to fit one's view. A very formal way to describe forced rationalization.

그 주장은 견강부회식 합리화에 불과하다.

Formal/Hanja
"궤변을 늘어놓다"

— To spout sophistry. Using complex but false rationalizations to win an argument.

그는 말도 안 되는 궤변으로 합리화를 늘어놓았다.

Formal
"제 논에 물 대기"

— Same as 아전인수. Rationalizing for self-interest.

그건 제 논에 물 대기 식의 합리화야.

Native Korean Idiom
"발뺌하다"

— To try to get out of a situation or responsibility, often using rationalization.

합리화하며 발뺌하려 하지 마세요.

Neutral

به‌راحتی اشتباه گرفته می‌شود

합리화 vs 정당화

Both involve giving reasons for actions.

'정당화' is about morality/justice; '합리화' is about logic/ego-defense.

전쟁을 정당화하다 (Justify war) vs. 실패를 합리화하다 (Rationalize failure).

합리화 vs 변명

Both are used for excuses.

'변명' is an external explanation; '합리화' is an internal logical construction.

늦은 것에 대한 변명 (Excuse for being late) vs. 게으름의 합리화 (Rationalization of laziness).

합리화 vs 해명

Both explain a situation.

'해명' is to clarify a misunderstanding; '합리화' is to make a wrong thing look right.

오해를 해명하다 (Clarify a misunderstanding) vs. 비리를 합리화하다 (Rationalize corruption).

합리화 vs 이유

Both are 'reasons'.

'이유' is neutral; '합리화' is a biased, self-serving reason.

떠나는 이유 (Reason for leaving) vs. 떠나는 것에 대한 합리화 (Rationalization for leaving).

합리화 vs 핑계

Both are excuses.

'핑계' is often a small lie; '합리화' is a complex logical argument.

공부 안 한 핑계 (Excuse for not studying) vs. 공부 안 하는 것에 대한 합리화 (Rationalization for not studying).

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

A2

N을/를 합리화하다

실수를 합리화하다.

B1

V-기 위한 합리화

포기하기 위한 합리화.

B1

N은/는 합리화에 불과하다

그의 말은 합리화에 불과하다.

B2

N을/를 N-로 합리화하다

소비를 투자로 합리화하다.

B2

자기합리화에 빠지다

그는 자기합리화에 빠져 있다.

C1

N의 합리화 과정

행정 절차의 합리화 과정.

C1

N이라는 명목의 합리화

구조조정이라는 명목의 합리화.

C2

N적 합리화의 기제

심리적 합리화의 기제.

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

합리 (Rationality)
합리성 (Rationalness/Reasonableness)
합리주의 (Rationalism)
자기합리화 (Self-rationalization)

فعل‌ها

합리화하다 (To rationalize)
합리화되다 (To be rationalized)

صفت‌ها

합리적 (Rational/Reasonable)
비합리적 (Irrational)

مرتبط

논리 (Logic)
이성 (Reason)
정당화 (Justification)
효율화 (Efficiency improvement)
최적화 (Optimization)

نحوه استفاده

frequency

High in psychological discussions, business news, and debates.

اشتباهات رایج
  • Pronouncing it as Hap-ri-hwa. Ham-ni-hwa.

    Korean phonology requires nasalization here. 'ㅂ' becomes 'ㅁ' and 'ㄹ' becomes 'ㄴ'.

  • Using it for mathematical rationalization. 유리화 (Yu-ri-hwa).

    '합리화' is for logic/behavior; '유리화' is for numbers/denominators.

  • Confusing it with 정당화. Use 정당화 for 'moral rightness' and 합리화 for 'logical consistency'.

    If you justify a crime as 'right', it's 정당화. If you explain it away logically to feel better, it's 합리화.

  • Using it as a positive word for 'being logical'. 합리적인 (Rational/Logical).

    '합리화' usually implies a process of *making* something look logical when it might not be. To say someone is logical, use '합리적이다'.

  • Forgetting the particle 을/를. 자신의 행동을 합리화하다.

    It is a transitive verb construction.

نکات

Use it in Debates

If someone is giving you a weak but logical-sounding argument, say '그건 합리화에 불과합니다' to shut it down professionally.

Object Markers

Always remember to use 을/를 with 합리화하다. For example: '행동을 합리화하다'.

The 'M' Sound

Practice saying 'Ham' like the food before 'ni'. [Ham-ni-hwa]. This is the most natural way.

Business Context

If you see '합리화' in a business headline, think 'efficiency' or 'downsizing', not 'excuses'.

Self-Reflection

In Korea, admitting you are '합리화'ing is a sign of great maturity and '반성' (self-reflection).

Academic Style

Use '합리화의 기제' (mechanism of rationalization) in essays to sound more academic.

Informal Teasing

Use '자기합리화 쩐다' (Your self-rationalization is crazy/great) with close friends as a joke.

News Keywords

When you hear '경영 합리화', prepare to hear about layoffs or budget cuts.

Hanja Root

Remember 'Hwa' (化) means 'to change'. You are changing a lie into a rational (합리) thought.

Level Up

Transition from using '핑계' to '합리화' to sound like a B2-level speaker.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

Think of 'HAM' (Hap becomes Ham) and 'KNEE' (ri becomes ni). You are putting logic on your 'HAM KNEE' (Ham-ni) to 'HWA' (flower/become) into an excuse.

تداعی تصویری

Imagine a person wearing a mask of a 'Lightbulb' (logic) over a face that is clearly 'Guilty' (the real motive).

شبکه واژگان

Logic (논리) Excuse (핑계) Psychology (심리) Business (경영) Self (자기) Change (-화) Reason (이유) Defense (방어)

چالش

Try to find one '자기합리화' you did today. For example, 'I didn't exercise because the air was bad.' Then say in Korean: '나는 운동 안 하는 것을 합리화했다.'

ریشه کلمه

Derived from the Hanja characters 合 (Hap), 理 (Ri), and 化 (Hwa).

معنای اصلی: 合 (to fit/combine) + 理 (reason/logic) + 化 (to become/transform). Literally: 'To transform something to fit reason.'

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

بافت فرهنگی

Be careful when accusing someone of '합리화'; it can be seen as an insult to their integrity.

English speakers use 'rationalization' mostly in psychology. In Korean, it's equally common in business news.

The 'Sour Grapes' fable is often used in Korea to explain '자기합리화'. Psychologist Sigmund Freud's defense mechanisms (방어 기제) are taught in Korean schools with '합리화' as a prime example. The 'Management Rationalization' policies of the Park Chung-hee era.

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

Psychological Self-Defense

  • 자기합리화에 빠지다
  • 무의식적인 합리화
  • 방어 기제로서의 합리화
  • 자아 보호를 위한 합리화

Business Restructuring

  • 경영 합리화 조치
  • 인력 합리화 계획
  • 비용 합리화 방안
  • 조직 합리화 추진

Social Criticism

  • 사회의 합리화
  • 불평등의 합리화
  • 폭력의 합리화
  • 범죄의 합리화

Daily Habits

  • 지각을 합리화하다
  • 과식을 합리화하다
  • 게으름을 합리화하다
  • 낭비를 합리화하다

Academic/Theory

  • 이론적 합리화
  • 논리적 합리화
  • 체계적 합리화
  • 개념의 합리화

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"자신도 모르게 자기합리화를 했던 경험이 있나요?"

"경영 합리화가 항상 좋은 결과만 가져올까요?"

"사람들은 왜 자신의 잘못을 합리화하려고 할까요?"

"합리화와 정당화의 차이는 무엇이라고 생각하세요?"

"어떤 상황에서 합리화가 긍정적으로 쓰일 수 있을까요?"

موضوعات نگارش

오늘 내가 한 '자기합리화' 한 가지를 적고, 그 진짜 이유가 무엇이었는지 분석해 보세요.

우리 사회에서 가장 위험한 '합리화'는 무엇이라고 생각하는지 논하세요.

만약 당신이 회사의 CEO라면, 직원들에게 '경영 합리화'를 어떻게 설명하시겠습니까?

과거의 실수를 합리화하지 않고 직시했을 때 얻은 교훈에 대해 써 보세요.

기술의 발전이 인간 삶의 합리화에 어떤 기여를 했는지, 그리고 부작용은 무엇인지 적어 보세요.

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

Not always. In business or economics (e.g., 경영 합리화), it means making a system more logical and efficient, which is positive. However, in personal contexts, it usually implies making excuses.

합리화 (Rationalization) focuses on making something 'seem logical' (often to oneself). 정당화 (Justification) focuses on making something 'right' or 'just' (often to others/law).

It is pronounced [함니화] (Ham-ni-hwa) due to Korean nasalization rules where 'ㅂ' becomes 'ㅁ' before 'ㄹ'.

No. For 'rationalizing a denominator' in math, Koreans use the word '유리화' (Yu-ri-hwa).

It means 'self-rationalization'—the act of creating logical-sounding excuses to convince yourself that your bad behavior or failure is acceptable.

Yes, it is a Sino-Korean word (Hanja) and is used in formal writing, news, and academic papers, though it is also common in daily speech.

Yes, just add '하다' to get '합리화하다' (to rationalize).

Yes, '합리화되다' means 'to be rationalized'.

In a psychological sense, '반성' (self-reflection) or '직시' (facing reality) are common opposites.

'핑계' is a simple, often external excuse. '합리화' is a more complex, internal logical justification. Use '합리화' when the excuse sounds 'smart' or 'theoretical'.

خودت رو بسنج 180 سوال

writing

Translate to Korean: 'Don't rationalize your mistakes.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'He rationalized his laziness.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'That is just self-rationalization.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'The company needs management rationalization.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I tried to rationalize my shopping.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'We should stop rationalizing crimes.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'It is a psychological rationalization.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Don't fall into the trap of self-rationalization.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Rationalization of the budget is urgent.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'He is a master of rationalization.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Once you start rationalizing, it never ends.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I rationalized the reason I was late.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'It is human nature to rationalize.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Do not justify your violence.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'We discussed work rationalization.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Self-rationalization prevents growth.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'He rationalized the failure as a learning experience.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Rationalization is a defense mechanism.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Stop the rationalization now.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Is this a rationalization?'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce [합리화] out loud correctly.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Don't rationalize' in polite Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'That is just self-rationalization' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Explain '경영 합리화' in simple Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'I rationalized my mistake' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Ask 'Why are you rationalizing?' in informal Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Rationalization is a defense mechanism' in formal Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Management rationalization is urgent' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Don't fall into the trap of self-rationalization' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Stop rationalizing your laziness' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'It is human nature to rationalize' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'He rationalized his violence' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'We should stop rationalizing' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'That's a smart excuse' using the word 합리화.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Budget rationalization' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [함니화]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [자기함니화]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [경영 함니화]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [함니화하지 마세요]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [함니화의 기제]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [함니화일 뿐이야]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [함니화될 수 없다]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [철저한 함니화]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [심리적 함니화]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [업무 함니화 방안]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:

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