better reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a more valid or convincing justification for a particular action or decision. Example: "If you want to convince me to change my mind, you'll need to provide a better reason than that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What better reason?

The New York Times - Food

The better reason is credibility.

The New York Times

Perhaps a better reason is its speed.

The New York Times

But there is a better reason.

The New Yorker

Ms. Kiefer offered a better reason: it's cool.

The New York Times

And what better reason to have a party.

The New York Times

LONG benighted, Ethiopia is attracting attention for a better reason.

The Economist

But now I've found a better reason for it.

The New Yorker

There can be no better reason than Bach's "Christmas Oratorio".

The New York Times - Arts

But Selma's daughters had better reason to shun her.

The New York Times - Books

As usual, the frivolous reason is the better reason, and the better reason looks a bit frivolous.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a "better reason", ensure it directly addresses and outweighs the previously stated or implied reasons. Clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the significance of the "better reason". Ensure it is genuinely more compelling, not just a matter of personal preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better reason" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig examples show it often introduces a more convincing explanation or justification compared to others. It signals a comparative evaluation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "better reason" is a commonly used noun phrase that introduces a more compelling or valid justification. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news, media, and formal contexts. When using the phrase, ensure it is genuinely more compelling than previous reasons to avoid overstatement. Consider using alternatives such as "more compelling reason" or "stronger justification" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more compelling reason

Focuses on the persuasive strength of the reason.

stronger justification

Emphasizes the validity and defensibility of the reason.

more valid rationale

Highlights the logical basis and soundness of the reason.

more convincing argument

Stresses the persuasive and believable aspect of the reason.

superior motive

Highlights that one is superior to others.

preferable explanation

Suggests that this explanation is more suitable or desirable.

more persuasive account

Emphasizes the ability of the reason to convince someone.

sounder basis

Implies a firmer and more reliable foundation for the reason.

more legitimate ground

Stresses the lawfulness and acceptability of the reason.

more substantial cause

Highlights that the reason is more significant and weighty.

FAQs

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

The phrase "better reason" is used to introduce a more compelling or valid justification for something. For example: "While the initial plan had some merit, we found a "better reason" to change course."

What are some alternatives to saying "better reason"?

You can use alternatives like "more compelling reason", "stronger justification", or "more valid rationale" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "a better reason" or "better reason"?

Both "a better reason" and "better reason" can be correct, depending on the context. "A better reason" is used when referring to one specific reason, while "better reason" can be used more generally. For example, "There is no "better reason" to do X than Y".

What's the difference between "good reason" and "better reason"?

"Good reason" indicates a sufficient justification, while "better reason" implies a superior or more compelling justification compared to another option or previously stated reason. For instance, having a good reason to exercise is positive, but discovering a "better reason", such as improved mental health, can increase motivation.