it was unreasonable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was unreasonable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something was not fair, logical, or justifiable in a given context. Example: "After reviewing the decision, I concluded that it was unreasonable to expect us to meet such tight deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I never thought it was unreasonable until I was laid off for four months".

The New York Times

We knew it was unreasonable to expect to share every interest.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But he argued it was unreasonable to demand al-Nusra forces leave before a full ceasefire.

The Guardian

He believed in reason, though it was unreasonable to do so.

The New Yorker

Jackson says it was unreasonable at the time to have forecast Iraq to a few hundred.

The Guardian

I think it was unreasonable to think that governments would accept that increase in debt with insouciance.

The Economist

Girardi said it was unreasonable and unproductive to ask players who do not normally bunt to start doing it.

The New York Times

But analysts said it was unreasonable to expect similar interest in many sales categories beyond consumer electronics.

The New York Times

However, Justice Antonin Scalia insisted that it was unreasonable to assume any privacy in luggage stowed in a public place.

The New York Times

"I don't think you can draw the conclusion that it was unreasonable," he said of doctors' decision to use TMR.

The New York Times

Under the circumstances of this case, it was "unreasonable, unnecessary" and contrary to "longstanding law," the court concluded.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was unreasonable", clearly state what action or belief is being deemed unreasonable to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of just saying "it was unreasonable", specify "it was unreasonable to expect him to finish the project in one day".

Common error

Avoid using "it was unreasonable" as a generic dismissal. Always provide specific reasons and context to support why something is considered unreasonable, which adds weight and credibility to your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was unreasonable" functions as a statement of judgment, indicating that a particular action, expectation, or belief lacks justification, logic, or fairness. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was unreasonable" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for denoting a lack of justification or logic. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure you provide specific context to clarify what action or belief you deem unreasonable. Consider alternatives like "it wasn't justified" or "it was unfair" for nuanced expression. Avoiding overuse and providing detailed reasoning will enhance the impact and credibility of your statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it wasn't justified

Focuses on the lack of justification for an action or belief.

it wasn't logical

Emphasizes the absence of a rational basis.

it was unwarranted

Highlights the lack of need or reason for something.

it was unjustifiable

Stresses the inability to defend or excuse something.

it was unfair

Concentrates on the lack of equity or impartiality.

it was groundless

Indicates a lack of factual basis or support.

it was excessive

Focuses on surpassing reasonable limits.

it was disproportionate

Highlights an imbalance or lack of proper relationship.

it defied reason

Emphasizes a direct contradiction of logical thought.

it lacked sense

Highlights the lack of understanding or meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "it was unreasonable" in a sentence?

Use "it was unreasonable" to express that a particular expectation, demand, or action lacked fairness, logic, or justification. For example, "It was unreasonable to expect her to work overtime without prior notice".

What are some alternatives to "it was unreasonable"?

You can use alternatives such as "it wasn't justified", "it was unfair", or "it was illogical" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was unreasonable" formal or informal?

"It was unreasonable" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though the surrounding language should align with the overall tone of your writing or speech.

What's the difference between "it was unreasonable" and "it was impractical"?

"It was unreasonable" implies a lack of fairness or justification, while "it was impractical" suggests that something is not feasible or realistic. The former focuses on ethics or fairness, while the latter focuses on feasibility.