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In the following excerpt, how should I interpret underwriting, is the word synonymous with justifying? If so why is that word used outside of am insurance context?

Given to mystical preoccupations, this android proposed the group escape attempt, underwriting it ideologically with a pretentious fiction as to the sacredness of so-called android “life.”

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  • Note that, literally and metaphorically, "underwrite" is often used to mean "provide money in support of".
    – Hot Licks
    Mar 18, 2021 at 21:25
  • Do not interpret the ability to deduce sense from flowery language for ... underwriting that style. Mar 18, 2021 at 21:26
  • Sounds like an “answer” on Jeopardy.
    – Jim
    Mar 19, 2021 at 7:28

1 Answer 1

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The sense is figurative:

Underwrite:

to support or concur with (a decision, statement, etc) by or as if by signature.

(Collins Dictionary)

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