a serious reason

USAGE SUMMARY

"a serious reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a legitimate, important, or meaningful justification for an action. For example: "I decided not to go to the party because I had a serious reason to stay home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

It's difficult not to be seduced by the outlandish promises of online medication, but pharmacists and doctors don't just withhold the good drugs, there is a serious reason why some aren't legal.

Independent

Jokes were cracked about the four decades that had passed since Watergate -- "You guys, we're really lucky we recognize each other," Mr. Redford said -- but the men were together for a serious reason.

The New York Times

In 1978, London offered only one hip club a week; by 1984 Time Out magazine was listing 50, while the British Tourist Authority reported that dancing was a serious reason visitors gave for visiting the UK.

The Guardian - Music

It's all about guys coming together, but for a serious reason".

BBC

These patients had a 18.5-fold risk to have a serious reason for their headache (such as meningitis, intracranial haemorrhage or tumour of the central nervous system), compared to ED headache patients that had used private transportation means [22].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

The P7000 beats the G12 on practically every stat, at the same price, and try as I might, I could not find a serious reason to buy the Canon over the Nikon.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"Please understand that if Passion Pit cancels a show, it's canceling a show for a damn serious reason, and we're not messing around with our fans," Angelakos writes.

Huffington Post

But there is a more serious reason for Cuban disquiet.

The Economist

"I also have a very serious reason to stop.

The Guardian - Sport

"So you've got to have a pretty serious reason to do that".

The New York Times

Objects and clothes glow in the sort of neon-bright hues that fashion editors keep vainly trying to push upon their readers but which have a very serious reason to be in this production.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a serious reason", ensure the context clearly indicates why the reason is considered significant or important. Provide details to support the claim and avoid vague or unsubstantiated assertions.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the severity of the "serious reason". Ensure the reason aligns with the perceived impact or consequences. Overstating can weaken your argument or credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious reason" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition (e.g., "for a serious reason") or as a subject complement. Ludwig AI confirms this is a grammatically correct construction.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a serious reason" is a grammatically sound and widely understood phrase used to denote an important justification or explanation. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability in various contexts. Although not exceptionally common, it appears frequently in news, science, and general discourse. The phrase serves to lend weight to arguments or decisions, emphasizing the significance of the underlying cause. When using "a serious reason", ensure clarity about the specific details that make it so, while avoiding overstatement to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a legitimate justification

This alternative is similar, but specifically emphasizes the legality or permissibility of the reason.

a compelling justification

This alternative emphasizes the strength and convincing nature of the justification.

a weighty rationale

This alternative suggests the reason is important and carries significant consequences.

a significant motive

This alternative focuses on the underlying drive or intention behind an action.

a crucial factor

This alternative highlights the importance of the reason as a determining element.

a substantial cause

This alternative implies a considerable and valid basis for something.

a valid ground

This alternative suggests the reason is legitimate and defensible.

a genuine basis

This alternative emphasizes the authenticity and realness of the foundation.

a pressing need

This alternative implies that the reason is urgent and requires immediate attention.

a grave concern

This alternative focuses on the severity and worry associated with the reason.

FAQs

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

You can use "a serious reason" to explain why someone made a choice, why an event occurred, or why something is necessary. For example: "The company delayed the project due to "a serious reason"."

What are some alternatives to "a serious reason"?

Alternatives include "a compelling justification", "a weighty rationale", or "a significant motive", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a serious reason"?

Use "a serious reason" when you want to emphasize that there is a legitimate and important justification for something, setting it apart from trivial or insignificant reasons. Avoid using it when the reason is self-evident.

What is the difference between "a serious reason" and "a good reason"?

"A good reason" implies a generally acceptable justification, while "a serious reason" suggests the justification is weighty, consequential, or addresses a significant concern. The difference is that a "serious reason" implies something is at stake.