legitimategrounds

noun

UK /lɪˈdʒɪtɪmət ɡraʊndz/

US /ləˈdʒɪtəmət ɡraʊndz/

Good and fair reasons for doing something.

The teacher had legitimate grounds to give the class extra homework because nobody listened.

SYNONYMS

valid reasons justifiable reasons good cause sound basis fair grounds

RELATED WORDS

justification reason evidence basis excuse

OTHER MEANINGS

2. Reasons that are allowed by the law.

The police needed legitimate grounds before they could search the car.

3. A fair and honest reason for a complaint or disagreement.

She had legitimate grounds to complain when her order never arrived.

4. Reasons that make sense and are not made up.

There are legitimate grounds to believe the old bridge needs repairs.