Reason:
* Refers to a thought process or logical explanation.
* Explains why something is done or happens.
* Can be neutral or biased.
Justification:
* Focuses on defending or explaining an action or belief.
* Aims to show something is right, proper, or acceptable.
* Often implies a need for defense or validation.
Examples:
* Reason: "The reason I'm late is that I got stuck in traffic." (Neutral explanation)
* Justification: "I'm late because I had to help a friend who was in an emergency." (Trying to explain why the lateness was acceptable)
In short: "Reason" provides an explanation, while "justification" attempts to make that explanation acceptable or valid.
When they can be used interchangeably:
* Sometimes "reason" and "justification" can be used interchangeably if the reason is clearly positive and acceptable. For example, "The reason/justification for the delay was a power outage."