is beyond reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is beyond reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, action, or belief that is illogical or cannot be justified by rational thought. Example: "His decision to quit his job without a backup plan is beyond reason."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

It is beyond reason".

The New York Times

Mr. Obama said the violence that occurred in the Denver suburb of Aurora "is beyond reason".

The New York Times

Kristol would not have been my choice to join David Brooks as a second conservative voice in the mix of Times columnists, but the reaction is beyond reason.

The New York Times

Why on earth the Queen's armed guards arrive at the climax of "Just You Wait," stepping on Eliza Doolittle's great final flourish, is beyond reason.

The New York Times

That was the last year in which Sporting failed to make the postseason, and while a repeat of that failure is beyond reason, 11 conceded in four games demands an explanation.

The Guardian - Sport

My Jesuit education encouraged me to use the power of reason, and test it to destruction, but also to revere that which is beyond reason and can be good.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It's beyond reason.

The New York Times

He was beyond reason".

The New York Times

It's beyond reason and it's beyond science.

The Guardian

Having to pay 10 times more than anyone in Zilina ever had before was beyond reason.

The New York Times - Sports

How should a justice system designed on logical principles respond to those who are beyond reason?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is beyond reason", ensure that the context clearly indicates a departure from logical or rational thought. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing the inexplicable or irrational nature of a situation, decision, or belief.

Common error

Avoid using "is beyond reason" in situations where a simpler explanation like "illogical" or "unreasonable" would suffice. This phrase carries a strong connotation of inexplicability and should be reserved for scenarios where standard reasoning truly fails.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is beyond reason" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a subject as exceeding the bounds of rational understanding. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with examples illustrating contexts where events, decisions, or situations defy logical explanation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is beyond reason" is used to describe something that defies logical explanation or rational understanding. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it functions as a predicate adjective, expressing bewilderment or disbelief. While grammatically correct and usable, Ludwig reports that it's best reserved for scenarios where standard reasoning truly fails to emphasize inexplicable natures. It appears most frequently in news and media and in scientific contexts. Alternatives such as "defies explanation" or "cannot be rationally explained", depending on the specific nuance intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defies explanation

This alternative shifts the focus to the lack of a clear explanation, highlighting the incomprehensibility of something.

cannot be rationally explained

This phrase emphasizes the inability to provide a rational justification for something, focusing on the rational aspect.

is devoid of logic

This alternative highlights the complete absence of logical reasoning.

transcends understanding

This implies that the subject goes beyond the limits of what can be grasped or comprehended.

exceeds comprehension

Similar to "transcends understanding", this stresses the inability to fully grasp something.

is simply irrational

This alternative provides a more direct and straightforward description of the lack of reason.

is not amenable to reason

This suggests that attempts to apply reason will not be successful.

lies outside the realm of reason

This phrase suggests that something exists beyond the scope of rational thought.

is insensible

This alternative highlights the lack of good sense or judgment.

lacks any rational basis

This emphasizes that there's no foundational rationality supporting it.

FAQs

How can I use "is beyond reason" in a sentence?

You can use "is beyond reason" to describe something that defies logical explanation. For example, "The violence in the region "is beyond reason", leaving aid workers struggling to find solutions."

What can I say instead of "is beyond reason"?

Alternatives include "defies explanation", "cannot be rationally explained", or "is devoid of logic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "is beyond reason" or "are beyond reason"?

"Is beyond reason" is used when referring to a singular subject, while "are beyond reason" would be used for plural subjects. For example, "His actions is beyond reason" (singular) vs. "Their demands are beyond reason" (plural).

What's the difference between "is beyond reason" and "is unreasonable"?

"Is beyond reason" implies a complete lack of logical basis, suggesting something is inexplicable or irrational. "Is unreasonable"/s/is+unreasonable simply suggests that something is unfair, excessive, or not practical, but not necessarily devoid of logic.