basic reason for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basic reason for" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is commonly used to introduce an explanation for something. For example, "The basic reason for the change in policy is to improve customer satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

There is another, perhaps more basic reason for Right's reversal.

The New York Times

Riley's is the simplest, oldest and most basic reason for making art.

The Guardian

His basic reason for trying stuff was that it was a "loosey-goosey" era.

The New York Times - Sports

"I told Snow the basic reason for the split was that science gave up models".

The New Yorker

Personally, I think the basic reason for the widespread feebleness in dealing with the Serbian monsters lay elsewhere.

The Guardian - Books

"The basic reason for doing this is to improve the position of the Academy Awards with regard to ratings and viewership," Mr. Pavlik said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Rather, it invokes independent principles of practical reasoning that articulate the basic reasons for action.

SEP

By iteratively asking "Why do I do what I do?", one comes to the most basic reasons for acting: life, knowledge, play, aesthetic experience, sociability (friendship), practical reasonableness, and religion.

SEP

There are two basic reasons for the surcharges.

The New York Times

But the basic reasons for total forgetfulness lie in the original briefs.

The Guardian

Other doctors cited more basic reasons for returning to work immediately.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "basic reason for", ensure that the reason you provide is indeed the most fundamental one, not just a contributing factor. Avoid oversimplification.

Common error

Avoid using "basic reason for" when explaining complex phenomena with multiple contributing factors. Instead, acknowledge the various elements at play for nuanced explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basic reason for" functions as a connector introducing an explanation or justification. It serves to highlight the most fundamental cause or rationale behind a particular situation, action, or phenomenon. Ludwig examples show its versatility across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "basic reason for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for introducing the core cause or justification behind something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate across diverse contexts, though particularly prevalent in news and scientific domains. When using this phrase, prioritize identifying the most fundamental explanation and avoid oversimplifying complex issues. Alternatives like "primary cause for" or "main rationale behind" can add nuance to your writing. The widespread usage and clarity it offers make "basic reason for" a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary cause for

Focuses on the cause, highlighting the most important one.

main rationale behind

Emphasizes the logical justification or principle underlying something.

core explanation for

Highlights the central explanation, suggesting a simplified understanding.

fundamental basis for

Stresses the groundwork or foundation upon which something is built.

underlying motive for

Points to the hidden or less obvious reason behind an action.

chief justification for

Emphasizes the defense or support for a decision or action.

essential grounds for

Highlights the indispensable reasons or facts supporting something.

principal impetus for

Indicates the driving force or initial motivation for something.

key factor in

Highlights the key element influencing or determining an outcome.

root cause of

Focuses on the origin of a problem or issue.

FAQs

How can I use "basic reason for" in a sentence?

The phrase "basic reason for" is used to introduce a fundamental explanation or cause. For example, "The "basic reason for" the company's success is its innovative product design".

What are some alternatives to "basic reason for"?

You can use alternatives like "primary cause for", "main rationale behind", or "core explanation for" depending on the context. These phrases offer slightly different nuances while conveying a similar meaning.

Is it better to use "basic reason for" or "main reason for"?

Both "basic reason for" and "main reason for" are correct and usable. "Basic reason for" emphasizes the fundamental explanation, while "main reason for" highlights the most significant factor. Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "basic reason for" and "underlying reason for"?

"Basic reason for" refers to the most evident and primary cause, while "underlying reason for" suggests a less obvious or hidden cause. Use "underlying reason for" when the cause is not immediately apparent.