bounds of reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bounds of reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the limits or constraints of rational thought or logical reasoning. Example: "While I appreciate your creativity, we must operate within the bounds of reason to ensure our proposal is feasible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Recreating both those facts in Technicolor strains the bounds of reason.

The New York Times

Apple argued that Samsung's effort to stall the judgment "crossed the bounds of reason".

The New Yorker

Gintis, H (2009) The Bounds of Reason: Game Theory and the Unification of the Behavioural Sciences.

The Guardian

Occasionally, his passion for writing would lead him into rewriting or cutting his author beyond the bounds of reason.

The Guardian - Books

"I said, 'If you're going to go out and do this bus tour, I hope you will keep this within some bounds of reason,' " Brad recalled.

The New York Times

Not all scholars, even of a liberal bent, agree that Bush has committed "high crimes and misdemeanors". Bush's legal advice may be wrong, they say, but still reside within the bounds of reason.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

People do stupid things all the time, on screen and off, and her impulsiveness isn't beyond the bounds of storytelling reason.

The New York Times

Bradford H. Kendall, chairman of the Dutchess County Legislature, said that lawmakers had "acted within the bounds of good reason" and that the county was likely to be judicious in enforcing the law at first, while businesses are deciding whether it applies to them.

The New York Times

We instinctively believe ourselves tethered, like the tide, to lunar waxing and waning - William Fulke, in his Book of Meteors (1640), was a bit of a latecomer in his assertion that, "From the new moone, to the full, all humors do encrease and from the full to the new Moone, decrease againe" - and that in certain phases this tethering pulls us out of the bounds of normal reason.

The Guardian

All citizens have full legal rights to free expression, and overstepping the bounds of public reason is never itself a crime.

SEP

We suggest as strongly as possible that the conduct herein described exceeded the 'bounds of reason' by two and a half country miles".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "bounds of reason" with synonyms like "limits of rationality" or "confines of logic" for a more formal or academic tone.

Common error

Avoid using "bounds of reason" when describing purely subjective preferences or feelings. This phrase is more appropriate when discussing objective rationality or logical consistency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bounds of reason" typically functions as a noun phrase. It refers to the limitations or constraints imposed on rational thought, logical argumentation, or sensible action. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and versatility in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bounds of reason" is a grammatically correct and versatile noun phrase used to describe the limits of rational thought or logical behavior. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples across diverse sources reveals that it's commonly employed in News & Media, Academia, and Science. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines 'reason' to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "limits of rationality" or "confines of logic" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Remember, this phrase is best suited for situations where objective rationality and logical consistency are important considerations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limits of rationality

Focuses specifically on the constraints of rational thinking, emphasizing the cognitive aspect.

confines of logic

Highlights the restrictions imposed by logical principles and frameworks.

parameters of sanity

Emphasizes mental stability and sensible behavior as the limiting factor.

restraints of sensibility

Focuses on the limitations imposed by good sense and reasonable judgment.

perimeters of rationale

Similar to 'limits of rationality' but places a stronger emphasis on justification and explanation.

boundaries of sound judgment

Highlights the restrictions related to making well-reasoned decisions.

curbs on logical thought

Emphasizes the act of restraining or controlling logical processes.

fences of common sense

Suggests that common sense acts as a barrier or limit to certain actions or ideas.

checks on rational behavior

Indicates mechanisms or factors that keep rational behavior in check.

criteria of levelheadedness

Focuses on remaining composed and sensible when making decisions.

FAQs

How can I use "bounds of reason" in a sentence?

You can use "bounds of reason" to describe actions or ideas that are considered logical or rational within certain limits. For example, "The proposal, while creative, needed to stay within the "bounds of reason" to be financially viable."

What are some alternatives to "bounds of reason"?

Some alternatives include "limits of rationality", "confines of logic", or "parameters of sanity depending on the context".

Is it better to use "bounds of reason" or "limits of reason"?

Both "bounds of reason" and "limits of reason" are grammatically correct and semantically similar. The choice between them often depends on stylistic preference or the specific nuance you wish to convey. "Limits" might sound slightly more formal.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "bounds of reason"?

It is inappropriate to use "bounds of reason" when describing subjective preferences or feelings that are not based on objective rationality. It's best suited for situations where logical consistency or rational thought are relevant.