a reasonable cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable cause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing justification or rationale for an action or decision, often in legal or formal contexts. Example: "The court found that there was a reasonable cause to believe that the defendant had committed the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Managers were always sacked but in most cases there was a reasonable cause.

Independent

Those who have failed to file FBAR's or other forms out of ignorance might be able to argue that they had a reasonable cause.

The New York Times

The agency generally won't waive interest on any bill due, but it will consider abating penalties if you can show a "reasonable cause" for filing late.

The New York Times

The DVLA is obliged to release information to anyone in the UK who has a reasonable cause to need it, so foreign authorities have simply hired UK companies to chase fines on their behalf.

The Guardian - Money

Today's testimony came on the first day of a "reasonable cause" hearing in which Judge Maureen Dennis will decide whether Mr. Skakel should face a jury trial as an adult.

The New York Times

These aforementioned findings provide a reasonable cause for this paper to examine the moderating effects of consumer gender in the effects of non-interactive talking avatars on consumer behaviours.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

A more reasonable cause is the reduced food intake.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

Neither has ever filed a notice of reasonable cause, a public finding that wrongdoing has probably occurred.

The New York Times

A positive screening test gives a police officer reasonable cause to ask the driver to provide a blood sample to quantify his THC level.

Injury Epidemiology

The measure would make it a crime to buy guns on behalf of individuals legally barred from possessing guns and would make it explicitly illegal to traffic two or more guns if a person had "reasonable cause" to believe a crime would be committed with any of those firearms.

Huffington Post

A judge found "reasonable cause" to believe that Michael Skakel, a nephew of Ethel Kennedy, killed a neighbor in 1975.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a reasonable cause" in legal or formal writing, ensure that the context clearly defines what constitutes 'reasonable' within that specific situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a reasonable cause" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler phrases like "a good reason" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable cause" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates a justification or rationale for an action or decision, frequently in legal or formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reasonable cause" is a commonly used phrase that indicates a valid justification or rationale, particularly in formal, legal, and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and serves to defend or explain actions or decisions. While it can be used in various settings, it's important to consider the formality of the situation, as simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in casual conversations. The phrase appears frequently in reputable news sources, scientific publications, and legal documents, highlighting its significance in these domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a justifiable reason

Highlights that the reason can be defended or excused.

a valid justification

Focuses on the legitimacy and acceptability of the reason.

a legitimate rationale

Emphasizes the logical and well-founded nature of the explanation.

plausible grounds

Focuses on the believability and credibility of the reason.

sufficient grounds

Highlights the adequacy of the basis for a decision or action.

tenable grounds

Emphasizes that the grounds can be maintained or defended against attack or objection.

a valid basis

Stresses the foundation or support for a particular belief or action.

a good reason

A more general and less formal alternative, suitable for everyday contexts.

a sound explanation

Indicates a thorough and logical account.

an acceptable excuse

Suggests a reason that, while not ideal, is considered satisfactory.

FAQs

How can I use "a reasonable cause" in a sentence?

You can use "a reasonable cause" to indicate a valid justification for an action or belief. For example, "The police needed "probable cause" before obtaining a search warrant".

What are some alternatives to "a reasonable cause"?

Alternatives include "a valid justification", "sufficient grounds", or "a good reason", depending on the specific context and level of formality.

Is it appropriate to use "a reasonable cause" in everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "a reasonable cause" is often more suitable for formal or legal contexts. In everyday conversation, simpler phrases like "a good reason" or "a valid excuse" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "a reasonable cause" and "probable cause"?

"A reasonable cause" is a general term indicating a valid justification, while "probable cause" is a specific legal standard requiring a sufficient level of evidence to believe a crime has been committed.