justifiably

This adverb is used to validate an emotion, reaction, or decision by linking it to a logical cause or a set of fair circumstances. It carries a tone of objective verification, suggesting that if an outside observer examined the evidence, they would reach the same conclusion. It is frequently used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as legal arguments, professional evaluations, or serious interpersonal discussions.

While similar to "rightly," "justifiably" emphasizes the existence of a justification or a legitimate reason rather than a moral correctness. It is most commonly paired with adjectives describing emotional states—such as "angry," "concerned," or "proud"—to signal that the feeling is not an overreaction but a proportional response to the situation.