apparent reason

USAGE SUMMARY

'apparent reason' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe something that is implied or assumed to be true, but may not have been explicitly stated. For example, "Her apparent reason for leaving was to pursue a new career path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For no apparent reason!

The New Yorker

And for no apparent reason.

The New York Times

The apparent reason?

The New York Times

No apparent reason for concern.

The New York Times - Sports

Sandro betrays Claudia, for no apparent reason.

The New York Times

Violence erupts for no apparent reason.

The New Yorker

The phone boxes frequently went silent for no apparent reason.

The New York Times

Druggie loser kills newlyweds for no apparent reason.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

City neighborhoods boom or collapse for no apparent reason".

The New York Times - Books

Cameron wittered on about fish, for no apparent reason.

The Guardian

Another breaks into loud, gasping sobs for no apparent reason.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "apparent reason" when you want to indicate that a reason is not explicitly stated but can be inferred from the available information. It allows you to introduce a degree of uncertainty or speculation.

Common error

Avoid using "apparent reason" when you actually know the definitive cause or explanation. If you have solid evidence, state the real reason directly rather than implying it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apparent reason" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It introduces a cause or explanation that is not explicitly stated but inferred. Ludwig AI confirms its usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "apparent reason" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that introduces an inferred cause or explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing, with a neutral register. When using this phrase, remember that it implies the reason is not explicitly stated and relies on interpretation. Alternatives include phrases like "obvious explanation" or "ostensible cause", depending on the desired nuance. Be mindful not to use it when you have definitive knowledge of the actual reason; in those instances, it is always better to state the true reason directly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obvious explanation

Focuses on the clarity and ease of understanding the cause.

ostensible cause

Indicates the reason given is the professed or apparent one, potentially hiding the real cause.

presumed explanation

Emphasizes the assumption or belief about the reason, rather than certainty.

evident justification

Emphasizes the validation or defense of an action.

visible motive

Highlights the underlying intention that can be seen or inferred.

manifest rationale

Stresses the reasoning is clear and easily perceived.

seeming justification

Suggests the justification is only apparent and may not be real.

superficial pretext

Implies the reason is not the true or deep cause, but a more surface-level one.

discernible purpose

Highlights the goal or intention that can be recognized or understood.

perceptible incitement

Focuses on something inciting or pushing towards a particular action.

FAQs

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

You can use "apparent reason" to introduce a cause or motive that is not explicitly stated but seems likely based on the circumstances. For example, "The "apparent reason" for his resignation was the stress of the job".

What are some alternatives to "apparent reason"?

Alternatives include "obvious explanation", "ostensible cause", or "presumed explanation". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "apparent reason" or "obvious reason"?

"Obvious reason" suggests the cause is clear and easily understood, while "apparent reason" implies the cause is not directly stated but can be inferred. Use "apparent reason" when there's a degree of speculation or uncertainty.

When is it appropriate to use "apparent reason"?

Use "apparent reason" when discussing a cause or motive that is not explicitly confirmed but seems likely based on available evidence or observations. It is suitable when you want to convey a sense of inference or assumption.