WordValerationale
the underlying reasons for something
In more detail
1. (noun) the reasons or logical basis for something; why something is done or believed
2. (noun) an explanation of the thinking behind a decision or action
Examples
- 1. The rationale for the new policy is to improve employee safety.
- 2. The company provided a clear rationale for closing the factory.
How to use rationale
Rationale is used in formal or professional contexts to refer to the underlying reasons or reasoning that justify a decision, policy, or belief. It is more abstract and systematic than reason, and implies a structured logical foundation rather than a simple cause. It often appears after the prepositions 'for' or 'behind' when explaining a specific decision or action.
Common phrases
- provide a rationale
- the rationale for
- the rationale behind
- logical rationale
- clear rationale
Synonyms
reason · basis · logic · justification · explanation
Word family
rationale (noun) · rational (adjective) · rationalize (verb) · rationality (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse rationale (noun: the reasons) with rational (adjective: sensible or logical), or fail to use the proper prepositions 'for' or 'behind' when introducing a rationale.
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