a rational connection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a rational connection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the logical relationship or coherence between two ideas, arguments, or concepts. Example: "In order to support your thesis, you must establish a rational connection between the evidence presented and your main argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Now, we don't believe that there is a rational connection between our performance and the price of the stock.

The New York Times

Both lower courts found a rational connection between the benefit restrictions and the government's interest in "fostering self-reliance and easing the burden on the welfare system," as the district court phrased it.

The New York Times

The burden of proof will remain on the accused, the court ruled, saying that such a system is fair so long as it is used with "uniform application" and there is "a rational connection between the facts presumed and the facts proved".

The New York Times

96 a. 4. A determinatio, if it is just and fit to be authoritative, must have a rational connection to principles of practical reasonableness.

SEP

Although a rational connection exists between the classification adopted and the legislative object, the effect of an under-inclusive classification is to accord different treatment to persons similarly placed.

Wikipedia

The Court held that when statutes contain terms such as "substantial release and significant amounts, an agency must establish a rational connection between the facts … and the choices".

Dose-Response

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But after too many homes were built and prices had climbed beyond any rational connection to local incomes, Boise suffered the same punishing pullback that has afflicted much of the country.

The New York Times

Some of that evidence, he said, "suggests that the coverage formula completely lacks any rational connection to current levels of voter discrimination," while other evidence indicates that the formula, "though not completely perverse, is a remarkably bad fit with Congress's concerns".

The New York Times

The "rational connection" implies a weak (constitutional law) standard of review that ends up being deferential to agency rulemaking.

Dose-Response

After an overview on present-day ORC turbine architectures, this chapter discusses the rational connection amongst the various steps of the fluid-dynamic design process, supplementing the dissertation with several applicable examples.

Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) Power Systems Technologies and Applications

The established rational connection between earnings and income is being eroded.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a rational connection", ensure the relationship you're describing is based on clear, logical reasoning and can be easily understood by your audience. Avoid using it when the link is based on emotion or subjective opinion.

Common error

Avoid using "a rational connection" when the link between two ideas is weak or based on speculation. Overstating the connection can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a rational connection" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig shows that it is often used to describe a link between two distinct concepts or elements, emphasizing the logical or justifiable nature of that association.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a rational connection" denotes a logical and understandable relationship, frequently appearing in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness, although its usage is relatively rare. When employing this phrase, ensure the connection is genuinely based on sound reasoning to avoid weakening your argument. Alternative phrases like "a logical connection" or "a reasonable link" can offer similar meanings depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a logical connection

Replaces "rational" with "logical", emphasizing reason and clear thinking.

a reasonable link

Substitutes "rational" with "reasonable" and "connection" with "link", suggesting a sensible association.

a coherent relationship

Replaces "rational" with "coherent" and "connection" with "relationship", highlighting consistency and clarity.

an understandable association

Uses "understandable" instead of "rational" and "association" instead of "connection", focusing on ease of comprehension.

a sensible correlation

Replaces "rational" with "sensible" and "connection" with "correlation", implying a practical and evident relationship.

a justified link

Replaces "rational" with "justified" and "connection" with "link", highlighting the presence of a valid explanation.

a sound rationale

Uses "sound rationale", indicating a well-reasoned and valid basis or justification.

a valid justification

Emphasizes the legitimacy and support for a particular claim or action.

a reasoned basis

Highlights the existence of a logical foundation or reasoning behind something.

an explicable relationship

Stresses the capability of a relationship to be explained and understood.

FAQs

What does "a rational connection" mean?

The phrase "a rational connection" signifies a logical and understandable relationship between two or more things, ideas, or events. It implies that there's a coherent reason or justification for their association.

How can I use "a rational connection" in a sentence?

You can use "a rational connection" to describe the link between evidence and a conclusion, the relationship between cause and effect, or any situation where logical reasoning is involved. For example: "The court found "a rational connection" between the law and its intended purpose."

What are some alternatives to "a rational connection"?

Alternatives include "a logical connection", "a reasonable link", or "a coherent relationship". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a rational connection" in informal writing?

While "a rational connection" is generally appropriate for formal or academic writing, it can also be used in less formal contexts where you want to emphasize the logical basis for something. However, in very informal situations, simpler phrasing might be preferable.