1. 使…合理化;对…进行理性解释
    If you try to rationalize attitudes or actions that are difficult to accept, you think of reasons to justify or explain them.

rationalize

    e.g. He further rationalized his activity by convincing himself that he was actually promoting peace...
           他坚信自己实际上是在促进和平，以此进一步将自己的行为合理化。
    e.g. I poured my thoughts out on paper in an attempt to rationalize my feelings.
           我把自己的想法一股脑地写在纸上，以试图给自己的感受找个说辞。

2. 精简;（通常指通过削减员工和设备）使更有效率
    When a company, system, or industry is rationalized, it is made more efficient, usually by getting rid of staff and equipment that are not essential.

    e.g. The network of 366 local offices is being rationalised to leave the company with 150 to 200 larger branch offices.
           该公司曾经拥有的366个地方办事处正被精简为150到200个规模较大的分支机构。