a proper reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a proper reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the justification or rationale behind a decision or action. Example: "In order to proceed with the request, we need to provide a proper reason for the delay."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"But that's not a proper reason for expulsion".

The New York Times

Did we ever establish a proper reason fro Elizabeth not meeting Udacha?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I don't even have a proper reason to explain why I didn't like it, it just seemed so detached from itself.

The Guardian

Any EU national sleeping rough or begging will be deported and barred from re-entry for 12 months "unless they can prove they have a proper reason to be here, such as a job".

The Guardian

Unlike most of us, queuing up to try VR on a digital fun day with the kids, Stef has a proper reason for wearing her mad goggles: she designs games for a living, and many games will soon be VR.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Last Saturday's unique situation, with Wales, Ireland and England having to chase their games, gave the teams a proper reason to pick up the ball, pass it around at pace and test themselves as attacking entities.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

So we will have time for a proper, reasoned debate.

The Guardian

In both respects it might be said to reflect the attitude of those who over the course of 2014 have hijacked the debate about the first world war and prevented the nation from having a proper reasoned discussion about the true nature of that terrible conflict.

The Guardian

In a statement, he said: "The FSA set out deliberately to destroy Keydata and did so without any proper reason.

The Guardian - Business

"How can we force them to do something without any proper reason?" The proposed changes go to the heart of the way schools work here.

The New York Times

It has been difficult for two reasons to gain a proper understanding of the relationship between the late Middle Ages and the Reformation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a proper reason", ensure that the reason is clearly articulated and directly relevant to the situation. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something lacks "a proper reason" without detailing why the reason is inadequate. Provide specific details or examples to strengthen your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a proper reason" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies the presence of an adequate justification or explanation for an action, decision, or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both grammatically sound and suitable for diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a proper reason" is a grammatically correct and usable noun phrase that indicates a valid or adequate justification for an action or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in written English. While its frequency is classified as uncommon, it finds frequent use in news media, scientific writing, and on wikis. When employing this phrase, ensure the reason is clearly articulated and relevant to the context. Alternatives like "a valid justification" or "a legitimate cause" can be considered for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valid justification

Emphasizes the legal or official acceptability of the reason.

a legitimate cause

Highlights the lawfulness and genuineness of the reason.

a sound explanation

Focuses on the logical and coherent nature of the reason.

a justifiable basis

Stresses the defensibility and support for the reason.

a reasonable ground

Underscores the sensible and rational nature of the reason.

a sufficient explanation

Highlights the fact that there are enough of the right reasons.

an acceptable rationale

Emphasizes that the explanation can be accepted and satisfactory.

a satisfactory motive

Highlights the intention behind a specific action.

a plausible explanation

Stresses that explanation is possible.

an adequate justification

Underscores that the justification is enough.

FAQs

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

You can use "a proper reason" to describe a valid justification or explanation for an action or decision. For example: "The company needs "a valid justification" before implementing the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "a proper reason"?

Some alternatives include "a valid justification", "a legitimate cause", or "a sound explanation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a good reason" or "a proper reason"?

While both are acceptable, "a proper reason" often implies a more formal or official justification, whereas "a good reason" can be more general. Consider the context when choosing between "a good reason" and "a proper reason".

What does it mean when someone says something was done without "a proper reason"?

It means that the action or decision lacked a valid, justifiable, or adequate explanation or motive. It suggests that there was no "a legitimate cause" or acceptable basis for the action.