asking for reasons

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asking for reasons" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to inquire about the justification or rationale behind a decision or action. Example: "During the meeting, I found myself asking for reasons behind the proposed changes to the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

For example, the person may simply be asking for reasons relating to sexual health, which is a perfectly valid reason to want to know a partner's sexual history.

Independent

Apparently, giving the investor the unilateral choice of asking for reasons was too radical.

Forbes

He warned that, if the money was not paid by 1 December, the European Commission would send the UK government a letter asking for reasons for the delay.

BBC

As there was no a follow-up question asking for reasons of potential use of Sydney Metro from 2019 onwards, the explanation of this decision is difficult as it could be to the lack of willingness to change travel patterns or scepticism towards UTO or other unknown issues.

Urban Rail Transit

It is here that we might pick up Robert Brandom's suggestion, following Sellars, that we should think of the existence of inferential processes or processes of reasoning as presupposing participation within social communicative interactions in which the making of an assertion is considered as a move in a language-game of the "giving and asking for reasons".

SEP

The focus of the questionnaire will include a set of patient vignettes with closed multiple-choice options about whether the patient should be admitted or referred, followed by open text boxes asking for reasons and comments.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

He urged Mr. Ritter to "make your case" twice, but asking for reason failed.

The New York Times - Arts

As physicians, we need to remember that asking for reason as a child slips away is not only an impossible request but also one lacking in empathy.

The New Yorker

When asked for reasons, Bynes began to answer.

The New York Times - Sports

Then he spoke quickly: "You asked for reasons — I could name another ten.

The New Yorker

If rejected, it is appropriate to ask for reasons why, but do it in a way that leaves a good impression.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "asking for reasons", ensure the context is appropriate for a direct inquiry. Consider the power dynamics and the potential defensiveness of the person being asked.

Common error

Avoid using "asking for reasons" in extremely formal or bureaucratic settings where more polite or indirect phrasing, such as "requesting a rationale" or "seeking clarification", might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asking for reasons" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun in a sentence. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts where justification or explanation is sought. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

37%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "asking for reasons" is a grammatically sound and usable gerund phrase that serves the purpose of soliciting explanations or justifications. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While it's more frequent in news and media, science, and academic contexts, its formality is generally neutral and varies with the specific scenario. When using this phrase, remember that directness can sometimes be perceived negatively; alternatives like "requesting a rationale" or "seeking clarification" can be more suitable in formal or sensitive situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requesting a rationale

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the need for a logical explanation.

inquiring about the justification

This alternative is more formal and focuses on the validity of the reasons.

demanding an explanation

This alternative is more forceful and suggests a lack of satisfaction with the current understanding.

seeking clarification

This alternative is more general and implies a need for better understanding, not necessarily a challenge.

wanting to know why

This alternative is more direct and informal.

investigating the grounds

This alternative suggests a more thorough and formal examination of the reasons.

probing the motives

This alternative delves into the underlying intentions or purposes.

desiring an account

This alternative is quite formal and suggests a need for a detailed explanation.

questioning the basis

This alternative focuses on the fundamental support or justification for something.

what's the reason

This alternative is a shorter and more direct way of asking for reasons.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "asking for reasons" to sound more polite?

Consider using alternatives like "requesting a rationale", "inquiring about the justification", or "seeking clarification" to soften the tone, especially in professional settings.

Is it always appropriate to directly use "asking for reasons"?

No, the directness of "asking for reasons" can be perceived as confrontational. Evaluate the situation and relationship before using it, opting for a more tactful approach if necessary.

What's the difference between "asking for reasons" and "demanding an explanation"?

"Asking for reasons" is generally a neutral inquiry. "Demanding an explanation" carries a stronger connotation of dissatisfaction or suspicion and suggests a right to an answer.

When is it best to use "asking for reasons" in writing?

Use "asking for reasons" when you need a clear understanding of the underlying logic or motivation behind a decision or action, and the context allows for a direct question. In formal writing, consider "requesting a rationale" or "inquiring about the justification".