What are The Differences Between Explaining and Justifying?

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where someone accuses you of justifying your actions when you are actually trying to explain them? This common misunderstanding can be frustrating and may lead to unnecessary conflict. It is important to recognize the difference between the two so that both parties can communicate more effectively. I want to identify and navigate these situations to ensure your explanations are understood.

Differences Between Explaining and Justifying

Communication is key to resolving conflicts, making decisions, and fostering understanding in both personal and professional settings. However, the line between explaining and justifying is often blurred, leading to misunderstandings and strained relationships. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they hold distinct meanings and serve different purposes in communication. This blog explores the key differences between explaining and justifying, providing insights into how each approach can impact interactions and outcomes.

Definition and Purpose

Explaining involves providing information or clarity about a situation, decision, or action. The primary goal of explaining is to foster understanding by offering context, details, and reasoning. Explaining something aims to make the listener comprehend the situation better without necessarily defending or excusing the action (Jones, 2020).

On the other hand, justifying involves defending or excusing a decision or action. Justifying aims to validate or legitimize a particular behavior, often in response to criticism or doubt. When you justify something, you attempt to prove that the action or decision was right or acceptable (Smith, 2018).

 Key Differences

Intent and Focus

1. • Explaining: The intent behind explaining is to inform and clarify. The focus is on providing a clear understanding of the facts and circumstances without trying to persuade or defend. For example, explaining a new company policy involves detailing its purpose, how it works, and its benefits (Taylor, 2019).
   • Justifying: The intent behind justifying is to defend or validate. The focus is on convincing others that a decision or action is appropriate. For example, justifying a late project delivery might involve emphasizing unforeseen challenges and efforts made to mitigate delays (Williams, 2017).

Emotional Tone

1. • Explaining: The tone of explaining is typically neutral and objective. It seeks to present facts and reasoning without emotional bias. This approach is often more acceptable in professional settings, where the goal is to communicate information clearly (Jones, 2020).
   • Justifying: The tone of justifying can be defensive or argumentative. It often involves an emotional component, as the person feels the need to protect their decision or action from criticism. This can sometimes lead to confrontational or strained interactions (Smith, 2018).

Perception by the Audience

1. • Explaining: When explanations are given, the audience usually perceives the communicator as transparent and informative. This can build trust and rapport, as the listener feels respected and valued for being provided with comprehensive information (Taylor, 2019). –
   • Justifying: Justifications can be perceived as defensive and may lead to skepticism or resistance. The audience might feel that the communicator is more interested in protecting themselves than in fostering understanding. This can erode trust and damage relationships over time (Williams, 2017).

Examples in Different Contexts

Workplace Scenario:

• Explaining: “The project’s deadline was extended because we encountered unforeseen technical issues that required additional time to resolve. We are now implementing measures to prevent similar delays in the future” (Jones, 2020).
• Justifying: “The project is late because the team was not adequately prepared, but we did our best under the circumstances, and it is not entirely our fault” (Smith, 2018).

 Personal Scenario:

• Explaining: “I did not attend the meeting because I had a prior engagement that I could not reschedule. I informed the team in advance and provided my input via email” (Taylor, 2019).
• Justifying: “I missed the meeting because something more important came up, and it could not be avoided. I am sure my absence did not affect the outcome significantly” (Williams, 2017).

Impact on Relationships and Outcomes

Understanding the difference between explaining and justifying is crucial for effective communication and relationship management. Explanations tend to foster understanding and cooperation, while justifications can lead to defensiveness and conflict. Here are some ways each approach can impact relationships and outcomes:

• Building Trust: Providing clear explanations demonstrates transparency and honesty, which are essential for building trust in both personal and professional relationships. On the contrary, frequent justifications can make others question your reliability and integrity (Jones, 2020).
• Encouraging Open Communication: When you explain your actions and decisions, you invite open dialogue and feedback, creating a collaborative environment. Justifying, however, can shut down communication and lead to misunderstandings (Smith, 2018).
• Enhancing Problem-Solving: Explanations provide a basis for identifying issues and finding solutions collaboratively. Justifications, on the other hand, often focus on assigning blame or defending actions, which can hinder effective problem-solving (Taylor, 2019).

While both explaining and justifying have their place in communication, understanding their differences and appropriate usage is key to maintaining healthy relationships and achieving positive outcomes. Explanations seek to inform and clarify, fostering understanding and cooperation, while justifications aim to defend and validate, which can lead to defensiveness and conflict. By focusing on clear, objective explanations, you can build trust, encourage open communication, and enhance problem-solving in various aspects of life.

References

1. Jones, S. (2020). “The Power of Explanation in Conflict Resolution.” Journal of Interpersonal Communication, 45(2), 112-125.
2. Smith, J. (2018). “Defensiveness in Communication: Causes and Remedies.” Communication Studies Review, 29(3), 255-272.
3. Taylor, R. (2019). “Explaining vs. Justifying: Impact on Workplace Dynamics.” Professional Communication Quarterly, 33(4), 301-315.
4. Williams, L. (2017). “The Role of Transparency in Building Trust.” Business Ethics and Communication, 21(1), 87-104.