kernel of irrationality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kernel of irrationality" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions about psychology, philosophy, or any context where one is analyzing the fundamental or core aspects of irrational behavior or thought. Example: "In his latest book, the author explores the kernel of irrationality that drives human decision-making, revealing surprising insights into our choices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

That kernel of irrationality has always been troublesome for Americans.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's not always because of irrationality.

Yale University

But I return to the earlier defence of irrationality.

The Economist

Certainly, his earlier provide plenty of evidence of irrationality.

The Economist

It's a masterpiece of irrationality and schizophrenia.

Princeton University

I've seen lots of irrationality, and lots more sense.

The Guardian - Books

That charge of irrationality turns truth on its head.

The New York Times

It was a time of irrationality, excess, and unprecedented freedom.

Harvard Business Review

There is a high degree of irrationality in Leonard.

The Guardian - Books

There also were signs of irrationality, forgetfulness, insomnia and depression.

The Guardian - Sport

In the language of economics, they have "demand for irrationality" curves: they will give up y amount of wealth in order to consume x amount of irrationality.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "kernel of irrationality", ensure the context clearly defines what specific irrational behavior or thought you are referring to. Be specific to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "kernel of irrationality" as a vague descriptor for complex issues. Always provide concrete examples of the irrationality you are identifying to avoid broad, unsubstantiated claims.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kernel of irrationality" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a fundamental or core component of illogical or unreasonable thought or behavior. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in analyzing patriotism and decision-making.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "kernel of irrationality" pinpoints a fundamental aspect of illogical thought or behavior. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable, although rare. The primary contexts for its usage are News & Media and Academia. It serves to critically examine and understand the underlying irrational components within a situation or decision. For alternative expressions, "core of irrationality" or "essence of irrationality" are suitable options. To effectively use the phrase, clarity and specificity are crucial to avoid overgeneralization. Remember to provide concrete examples to substantiate claims of irrationality. To summarize, while "kernel of irrationality" is not a common phrase, it can add precision and analytical depth to your writing when used thoughtfully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core of irrationality

Replaces "kernel" with "core", emphasizing the central or innermost aspect of irrationality.

essence of irrationality

Substitutes "kernel" with "essence", highlighting the fundamental nature of irrationality.

root of irrationality

Uses "root" instead of "kernel", suggesting the origin or cause of irrational behavior.

element of irrationality

Replaces "kernel" with "element", indicating a component or part of irrationality.

seed of irrationality

Employs "seed" instead of "kernel", implying the potential for irrationality to grow or develop.

trace of irrationality

Uses "trace" instead of "kernel", emphasizing a small amount or indication of irrationality.

hint of irrationality

Substitutes "kernel" with "hint", suggesting a subtle or indirect manifestation of irrationality.

touch of irrationality

Replaces "kernel" with "touch", indicating a slight or minimal presence of irrationality.

basis of irrationality

Uses "basis" instead of "kernel", focusing on the underlying foundation or reason for irrationality.

source of irrationality

Substitutes "kernel" with "source", highlighting the origin from which irrationality arises.

FAQs

How can I use "kernel of irrationality" in a sentence?

You can use "kernel of irrationality" to describe the fundamental element of an illogical belief or behavior. For instance: "The politician's decision revealed a "kernel of irrationality" in their economic policy."

What's a good substitute for "kernel of irrationality"?

Alternatives include "core of irrationality", "essence of irrationality", or "root of irrationality", which all emphasize the fundamental aspect of the irrational thought or action.

Is it better to say "element of irrationality" or "kernel of irrationality"?

Both "element of irrationality" and "kernel of irrationality" are grammatically correct, but "kernel" suggests a more concentrated or essential component, while "element" implies a more general part.

What does "kernel of irrationality" imply about the situation being described?

It suggests that there's a small but significant illogical element present, which could have broader implications if left unaddressed.