give the rationale for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "give the rationale for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want someone to explain the reasoning or justification behind a decision, action, or idea. Example: "In your report, please give the rationale for the proposed changes to the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Mr. Castelli did not give the rationale for his decision, which comes just after the ruling conservative government lost its re-election bid to the center-left opposition.

The New York Times

The DVD and the supporting material for parents seem simplistic ("See that your child eats right" is the first bit of advice in the parents' booklet), but to hear W. Steven Barnett, director of the National Institute for Early Education Research at Rutgers, give the rationale for the initiative, emphasizing the very, very basics is the whole point.

The New York Times

Aim of the paper is to give the rationale for evaluating the coordinated surge protective device (SPD) system characteristics in order to reduce the probability of damage of electrical and electronic equipment within a structure against lightning surges due to direct lightning stroke to the connected low voltage overhead lines (source of damage S3 according to IEC standard 62305).

Electric Power Systems Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

In his introduction to "Our White House," David McCullough gives the rationale for this ambitious enterprise.

The New York Times

The first sentence (usually) gives the rationale for the research, and the last asserts a 'contribution to knowledge'.

The Guardian

The established models revealed the influence of mixture components on phase behaviour and drug solubility and gave the rationale for formulation optimisation.

European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

The final draft expands on Borba's arguments by including a quote that gives the rationale for supporting such an opinion, starting with She states that… Mara creates a dialogically expansive space by using a relatively neutral reporting verb, states.

Functional Linguistics

The study gives the rationale for, and may provide schedules for, ESW treatment of tendonopathies.

Acta Orthopaedica

Studies in animal models of arthritis have given the rationale for testing HDACi in human conditions and particularly in RA: The first report of HDACi in the treatment of arthritis was reported by Chung et al. (2003 ).

Clinical Epigenetics

The included thirty-one criteria are all single not-overlapping arguments to prioritize health interventions and are defined in Table 2. Here, we will give the rationale used for a selection of the criteria considered.

BMC Health Services Research

In the administration's pursuit of whatever lofty goal was accomplished by visiting Iraq Bob Hope-style, I wonder if any thought was given to the rationale for this war effort.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "give the rationale for", ensure that the reasoning is clear, logical, and directly relevant to the topic at hand. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific details and evidence.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical or convoluted language when "giving the rationale for" something. Aim for clarity and accessibility to your intended audience. Instead of using jargon, try to articulate the reason in clear and simple terms.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give the rationale for" functions as a verb phrase used to introduce an explanation or justification for a particular action, decision, or belief. It is used to present the underlying reasons that support something, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "give the rationale for" is a versatile phrase used to introduce the reasoning or justification behind a decision, action, or idea. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. The phrase is most frequently found in scientific and news contexts, indicating its use in presenting well-supported explanations. To enhance clarity, avoid overly complex language and ensure that the provided rationale is logically sound and directly relevant. For more formal settings, consider alternatives such as "provide the justification for" or "elucidate the principles of".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain the reasoning behind

Focuses on clarifying the thought process leading to a decision, emphasizing the 'why'.

justify the grounds for

Highlights the act of defending or proving the validity of an action or decision.

provide the justification for

Stresses the act of offering a valid reason or excuse for something.

outline the reasons for

Emphasizes a structured presentation of various reasons supporting a decision.

detail the motives behind

Concentrates on the underlying motivations or intentions driving an action.

clarify the basis for

Focuses on making the fundamental principles or assumptions understandable.

present the explanation for

Involves offering a detailed account to make something clear and understandable.

offer the account for

Implies a narrative or story that justifies a particular action or decision, often in a formal context.

state the purpose of

Focuses on the intended aim or function, rather than a detailed justification.

elucidate the principles of

Highlights the basic foundations, rules, or codes of conduct that support a decision or action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "give the rationale for" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "provide the justification for", "elucidate the principles of", or "outline the reasons for".

What's a simple way to say "give the rationale for"?

Simpler alternatives include "explain the reason for", "justify the grounds for", or "clarify the basis for".

Is it always necessary to "give the rationale for" every decision?

While not always mandatory, providing a rationale enhances transparency and understanding. It is particularly important when decisions may be questioned or impact others.

What's the difference between "give the rationale for" and "state the purpose of"?

"Give the rationale for" offers a justification, whereas "state the purpose of" focuses on the intended aim. The former explains why something is done, while the latter explains what is to be achieved.