a legitimate reason

USAGE SUMMARY

"a legitimate reason" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to make it clear that you consider a reason to be acceptable. For example: "I can see you have a legitimate reason for not attending the meeting, so I'll accept your apology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There's a legitimate reason for this particular change, however.

The New York Times

Safety can also be a legitimate reason to spend more.

The New York Times

I just have to find a legitimate reason.

The New Yorker

And then they have a legitimate reason to go, "What's in it for us?" Q.

The New York Times

Extra point Can you think of a legitimate reason to keep Parcells out of the Hall?

The New York Times

Eagles fans may actually have a legitimate reason to gripe about Coach Andy Reid this week.

The New York Times

We can only pray that there's a legitimate reason to bring him into the show.

Independent

"We need to say," Mr. Blunkett said, "there is a legitimate reason for you to work.

The New York Times

He gained "a legitimate reason for being peculiar," he later wrote, adding, "I became an immigrant".

The New York Times - Arts

There was a legitimate reason to remove Saddam, but it was not W.M.D.

The New York Times

That's not a legitimate reason in the Supreme Court of the United States".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when presenting "a legitimate reason". What one group deems legitimate, another might not. Tailor your explanation accordingly.

Common error

Avoid using "a legitimate reason" to shut down discussion or dismiss concerns without fully addressing them. Acknowledge opposing viewpoints and explain the reason thoroughly to foster understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a legitimate reason" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a valid, acceptable, or justifiable cause or explanation for something. Ludwig confirms this through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a legitimate reason" is a commonly used noun phrase that serves to justify, explain, or validate something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news and media to professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure the reason is genuinely justifiable and clearly explained. Be mindful of overusing it as a conversation stopper and instead, use it to foster understanding and provide well-supported explanations. Consider the semantic alternatives like "a valid justification" or "a sound basis" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valid justification

Focuses more on the act of proving something is right or reasonable.

a justifiable rationale

Emphasizes the logical basis and defensibility of the reason.

a sound basis

Highlights the strength and reliability of the reason.

a valid cause

Highlights the reason as a source of action.

a good explanation

Focuses on making the reason understandable and acceptable.

a rightful ground

Implies the reason is based on moral or legal correctness.

an acceptable motive

Focuses on the intention behind an action being reasonable.

a defensible argument

Emphasizes the reason as a point that can be supported against criticism.

a plausible pretext

Suggests the reason is believable, though perhaps not entirely genuine.

a reasonable excuse

Focuses on the reason as a justification for a mistake or failure.

FAQs

How can I use "a legitimate reason" in a sentence?

You can use "a legitimate reason" to justify an action, explain a situation, or defend a decision. For example: "She had "a legitimate reason" for missing the deadline."

What are some alternatives to "a legitimate reason"?

Some alternatives include "a valid reason", "a justifiable cause", or "a sound basis". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "a legitimate reason reason"?

Yes, saying "a legitimate reason reason" is redundant. The phrase "a legitimate reason" already implies a valid or justifiable basis, so repeating "reason" is unnecessary.

What distinguishes "a legitimate reason" from "a good reason"?

"A good reason" is more general and subjective, while "a legitimate reason" suggests a more formal, justifiable, or legally acceptable basis. "A legitimate reason" often implies that the reason holds up to scrutiny or meets certain criteria.