Select the word from among the given options that is closest in meaning to the highlighted word in the given sentence.
Ashok tried to justify his late arrival by sharing about the traffic jam he encountered on the way.

Correct option is D

The correct synonym of the word justify is (d) explain.
Given word: Justify
· Meaning: To show or prove something to be right or reasonable.
· Hindi: उचित ठहराना, सफाई देना ✅
Example: He justified his absence by explaining the circumstances.
Correct answer word: Explain
· Meaning: To make something clear or easy to understand.
· Hindi: स्पष्ट करना, समझाना ✅
Example: She explained the delay in detail.
Synonyms: clarify, defend, validate.
Antonyms: blame, accuse, condemn.
Meanings of all other given options:
· Mention: To briefly refer to or speak of something.
Hindi: उल्लेख करना ❌
· Intensify: To become or make more intense.
Hindi: तीव्र करना ❌
· Hesitate: To pause before saying or doing something.
Hindi: हिचकिचाना ❌