devious reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devious reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a motive that is cunning, deceitful, or morally questionable. Example: "She had a devious reason for helping him, one that she kept hidden from everyone else."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The writer knows there is some devious reason for her visit.

The New Yorker

There may, however, be a less devious reason for the ECB to hold rates steady: many of the data are telling it not to cut.

The Economist

There is probably some devious reason for this, but it isn't particularly amazing that he can name all 50 capital cities and add a fun fact about each state.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Pay-per-click advertising is not without its problems especially "click fraud", the practice of generating bogus clicks for devious reasons, such as making a rival advertiser pay for nothing.

The Economist

There is more to these hard-working women than their laundry skills — they are called devious for a reason — but the story lines and dialogue may be a bit too cute and contrived to hold viewers' interest for long.

The New York Times - Arts

She added: "There is more to these hard-working women than their laundry skills — they are called devious for a reason — but the story lines and dialogue may be a bit too cute and contrived to hold viewers' interest for long".

The New York Times - Arts

"I will never achieve anything," he tells her, "if I leave my heart here". Inevitably less convincingly portrayed are the string of myopic Foreign Office Brits like Alistair Canning Jack Davenportt) who have their devious, distinctly nonromantic reasons for trying to derail this love match.

Los Angeles Times

The diversity was part of the Admissions Office's devious plan: everyone was there for a reason, and that reason was to enhance one another's education.

Huffington Post

Asked why he thought the president had pardoned him from his sentence, he mused that it might have buckled beneath public pressure.A senior government minister, who requested anonymity, said the president's reasons were more devious.

The Economist

Don't give them any reason to believe you're devious or deceitful as well.

The Guardian - Money

For that reason, using Bcc can be devious in the workplace.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "devious reason" when you want to imply that someone has a hidden and likely dishonest or manipulative motivation for their actions. It adds a layer of suspicion and intrigue to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "devious reason" in contexts where a neutral or innocent explanation is more appropriate. Overusing it can make your writing sound overly cynical or suspicious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devious reason" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "devious" modifies the noun "reason". It describes the nature of the reason, implying it is cunning, deceitful, or manipulative. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is usable and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "devious reason" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a hidden and potentially manipulative motive. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It appears primarily in news and media contexts and is relatively rare overall. When using this phrase, be mindful of the negative connotation and ensure it fits the context of your writing. Alternatives such as "ulterior motive" or "hidden agenda" may be suitable depending on the specific shade of meaning you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ulterior motive

Changes the noun from "reason" to "motive", implying a hidden purpose.

underlying cause

Shifts the focus to a less obvious or apparent reason.

secret agenda

Highlights the hidden and planned nature of the reason.

hidden intention

Emphasizes the concealed purpose behind an action.

insidious purpose

Conveys a more sinister and subtly harmful reason.

crafty scheme

Focuses on the clever and manipulative aspect of the reason.

calculated ploy

Highlights the deliberate and strategic nature of the reason.

manipulative tactic

Focuses on the exploitative aspect of the reason.

Machiavellian design

Implies a ruthless and cunning reason, prioritizing political advantage.

dishonest pretense

Highlights the deceptive and false nature of the presented reason.

FAQs

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

You can use "devious reason" to describe a hidden and often manipulative motive, such as: "She had a "devious reason" for offering help, one that no one suspected."

What are some alternatives to "devious reason"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "ulterior motive", "hidden agenda", or "secret intention".

Is "devious reason" a formal or informal phrase?

"Devious reason" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally more common in news and media or when discussing interpersonal relationships.

What is the difference between "devious reason" and "good reason"?

"Devious reason" implies a hidden, potentially dishonest motive, while "good reason" suggests a valid and justifiable explanation.