justification

noun

1. (countable)A reason, explanation, or excuse which someone believes provides convincing, morally acceptable support for behavior or for a belief or occurrence.

   “The growing use of social media to spread anger and dissent in the Arab world has been hailed by western governments as one of the chief justifications for a completely unfettered internet. The US is reportedly funding the secret rollout of technology in Iran in an effort to undermine internet censors in the country.”

2. (uncountable)The forgiveness of sin.

   “[…] to articulate a common understanding of our justification by God’s grace through faith in Christ.”

3. (uncountable)The alignment of text to the left margin (left justification), the right margin (right justification), or both margins (full justification).