acceptable rationale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acceptable rationale" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a justification or reasoning that is deemed satisfactory or reasonable in a particular context. Example: "The committee found the proposal to be well-structured, and the acceptable rationale provided for the budget increase was convincing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

In virtually every human society, "He hit me first" provides an acceptable rationale for doing that which is otherwise forbidden.

The New York Times

The main aim of job evaluation is to provide an acceptable rationale for determining the pay of existing hierarchies of jobs and for slotting in new ones.

International Encyclopedia of the Social & Behavioral Sciences

Jeff Flake, of Arizona, who is up for reëlection in 2018, said, of the Comey decision, "I've spent the last several hours trying to find an acceptable rationale for the timing of Comey's firing.

The New Yorker

I guarantee you there will be more shoes to drop". Senator Jeff Flake of Arizona tweeted that he has spent several hours trying to find an acceptable rationale for the timing of Comey's firing and could not do it.

The Guardian

If a candidate finds that director compensation is at or above the high end of the range for comparable companies, the candidate and his or her counsel should undertake further review to determine if there is an acceptable rationale for the divergence.

Harvard University

tweeted that he spent "several hours trying to find an acceptable rationale for the timing of Comey's firing".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Literally - No. Rationale.

Huffington Post

In an effort to convert the law of nations into a law among nations and to provide it with a new secular rationale acceptable to both sides in the religious quarrel, Grotius fell back on the classical view of natural law and the rule of reason.

Britannica

But those frustrations are often vented in religious, not political, terms, because religion is a more socially acceptable, and safer, rationale for public outcry.

Los Angeles Times

There is no acceptable motive or rationale for these crimes, as there is no acceptable excuse that they should be allowed to continue with flagrant impunity.

Unicef

This method lacks an acceptable contemporary scientific rationale, so even if some people think that this method is useful, it cannot be introduced in an obstetrics department, unless several well carried out studies have shown, unequivocally, that the vast majority of unborn babies can be correctly classified by gender using a pendulum.

Chiropractic and Manual Therapies

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a rationale, ensure it aligns with the values and expectations of your audience to increase its acceptability. Consider the context and tailor your explanation accordingly.

Common error

Avoid assuming a rationale that works in one context will automatically be acceptable in another. Always adapt your reasoning to the specific situation and audience to avoid potential misunderstandings or rejection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acceptable rationale" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'acceptable' modifies the noun 'rationale'. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples, where it typically introduces a reason or justification deemed satisfactory within a given context.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "acceptable rationale" is a phrase used to describe a justification or reasoning that is deemed satisfactory in a given context. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse fields like news, science and academia. When seeking alternative expressions, consider options such as "valid justification" or "reasonable rationale". Remember to adapt your reasoning to the specific situation and audience. While the phrase isn't extremely common, its clear and justifiable nature ensures its appropriateness in various professional and academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acceptable justification

This alternative is very close in meaning, with "justification" highlighting the act of showing something to be right or reasonable.

acceptable explanation

Replaces "rationale" with a more general term for a statement that clarifies something, reducing the emphasis on underlying reasoning.

satisfactory rationale

Substitutes "acceptable" with "satisfactory", indicating that the rationale meets a certain requirement or standard.

plausible rationale

Replaces "acceptable" with "plausible", suggesting the rationale is believable and likely true, though not necessarily proven.

valid justification

Emphasizes the legitimacy and soundness of the reason given, making it legally or logically defensible.

reasonable rationale

Indicates that the rationale is logical and based on good judgment, implying a balanced and sensible approach.

suitable rationale

Suggests the rationale is appropriate for a particular situation or purpose, fitting well within the given context.

acceptable basis

Shifts the focus from a detailed explanation to the fundamental principle or foundation upon which something is based.

acceptable reason

Simplifies the phrase, using "reason" as a more basic synonym for "rationale", suitable for less formal contexts.

palatable rationale

Indicates that the rationale, while potentially difficult, is presented in a way that is agreeable or easy to accept.

FAQs

What does "acceptable rationale" mean?

An "acceptable rationale" is a justification or explanation that is considered satisfactory or reasonable in a particular context. It implies that the reasoning behind a decision, action, or belief is valid and meets the standards or expectations of those evaluating it.

How can I provide an "acceptable rationale"?

To provide an "acceptable rationale", ensure your reasoning is logical, evidence-based, and clearly communicated. Consider the audience and their perspectives, and tailor your explanation to address their concerns and expectations. Use clear language and avoid jargon.

What are some alternatives to "acceptable rationale"?

You can use alternatives such as "acceptable explanation", "valid justification", or "reasonable rationale" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "acceptable rationale" and "plausible rationale"?

Yes, while both terms relate to reasoning, "acceptable rationale" implies that the reasoning meets certain standards or expectations, whereas "plausible rationale" suggests the reasoning is believable or likely true, but not necessarily proven or fully endorsed.