outdated rationale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outdated rationale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reasoning or justification that is no longer relevant or valid due to changes in context or understanding. Example: "The company's decision to stick with the old marketing strategy was based on an outdated rationale that no longer applies to today's market conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Mexican artists Thomas Sanchez and Gilberto Castro don't subscribe to their outdated rationale but are interested in the ethereal region that exists between art and interactive technology.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But even outdated policies should have a rationale.

Huffington Post

These horizontal slashes across Australian skies irked local architects, who argued that their various rationales, about fire safety and urban congestion, were outdated.

The Guardian

Scott Duncan's case employed a rationale similar to the one she used to deny Burpee's claim, including reference to the outdated NRC report.

Huffington Post

My rationale?

The New Yorker

Even outdated?

The Guardian - Opinion

Her rationale?

The New York Times

Outdated rules persist.

The Economist

Seems a bit outdated.

Independent

"Their model is outdated.

The New York Times

The E.U. rationale?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outdated rationale" when you want to specifically emphasize that the reasoning behind a decision or action is no longer valid due to changed circumstances or new information. This suggests the rationale was once valid but has since been superseded.

Common error

Avoid using "outdated rationale" to simply dismiss a viewpoint you disagree with. The rationale might be outdated but still offer valuable insights or historical context. Acknowledge any past validity before explaining why it's no longer applicable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outdated rationale" functions as a noun phrase where "outdated" modifies the noun "rationale". It identifies a specific type of reasoning or justification that is no longer valid or relevant. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "outdated rationale" describes a reasoning or justification that is no longer valid due to changed circumstances. It's grammatically correct but relatively rare in usage, primarily found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity. When using it, emphasize the shift in context that renders the rationale obsolete, and avoid simply dismissing viewpoints without acknowledging any prior validity. Alternatives include "obsolete reasoning" and "antiquated justification", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obsolete reasoning

Focuses on the reasoning being no longer in use or applicable.

antiquated justification

Highlights the justification as old-fashioned and out of date.

irrelevant reasoning

Emphasizes the lack of connection to the current situation.

invalid reasoning

Stresses the flaw in the logic or the lack of a sound basis.

passé rationale

Uses a French term to indicate something is out of style and no longer relevant.

outmoded logic

Similar to obsolete reasoning, but specifically points to the system of logic being outdated.

superseded justification

Indicates that a newer justification has replaced the old one.

outworn explanation

Suggests the explanation has lost its strength and validity over time.

stale reasoning

Implies the reasoning has become unoriginal and ineffective.

archaic rationale

Highlights the ancient or very old nature of the reasoning.

FAQs

How can I use "outdated rationale" in a sentence?

You can use "outdated rationale" to explain why a previous decision or belief is no longer valid. For example, "The company's reliance on print advertising is based on an "outdated rationale", as most consumers now get their information online."

What are some alternatives to "outdated rationale"?

Some alternatives include "obsolete reasoning", "antiquated justification", or "irrelevant reasoning". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "outdated rationale" and "flawed rationale"?

"Outdated rationale" suggests the reasoning was once valid but is no longer applicable due to changes over time. "Flawed rationale", on the other hand, implies the reasoning was inherently incorrect or illogical from the beginning. You can also say "unsound reasoning".

When is it appropriate to use "outdated rationale" instead of just saying "wrong"?

Use "outdated rationale" when you want to acknowledge that the reasoning had some validity in the past but is no longer appropriate or effective. Saying something is simply "wrong" is more direct but lacks the nuance of acknowledging historical context or changing circumstances.