legitimatereason
nounUK /lɪˈdʒɪtɪmət ˈriːzən/
US /ləˈdʒɪtəmət ˈrizən/
A good and fair reason that makes sense.
She had a legitimate reason for being late because her bus broke down.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A reason that follows the rules or the law.
The teacher accepted his legitimate reason for missing the test.
3. A real reason that is true and not made up.
Wanting to help his friend was a legitimate reason to volunteer.
4. A reason that other people can understand and accept.
Needing to care for a sick family member is a legitimate reason to stay home.