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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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rational

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'rational' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that uses logical reasoning when making decisions, or to describe a thought process that is logical and well-reasoned. For example, "He took a rational approach to solving the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If we are entitled to choose on our own behalf or on our children's behalf only when we are deemed rational, and rationality is defined to mean a consensus with the authorities, then autonomy is a bad joke.

News & Media

The Economist

It purports to be objective and rational yet it builds in so many assumptions that it leads inevitably to the conclusion that animal experiments are necessary.

News & Media

The Guardian

You're a rational person with an instinct for self-preservation.

"I know the argument that you persuade Auntie Doris to take her life because then you inherit the money, but you've got to have two doctors to certify that you are mentally competent and you are making a rational, well-informed decision on your own, without persuasion," he says.

News & Media

The Guardian

By not understanding the likely levels of immigration we risk increasing the poisonous rhetoric and prejudice which leads to the destruction of all rational debate.

News & Media

The Guardian

The plagues are strikingly recreated from a visual effects point of view, but one of Rameses' cronies pops up to provide boring rational explanations for them; and the Red Sea just sort of goes away of its own accord.

Not since the "great big new tax on everything" line mowed down reasonable discussion about alternative ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions has a political party so gratuitously abandoned rational policy development in the interests of a sledgehammer slogan.

News & Media

The Guardian

The rational, autonomous, self-aware agent acting in his own self-interest according to static preferences has faded as we realise that behaviour is largely irrational, unconscious and driven by external contexts.

News & Media

The Guardian

If the initial reason for doing the film was rational, it quickly became emotional: an opportunity to download, unwind and confess at the end of a hard, hard day.

News & Media

The Guardian

But the judge said said that "a rational system of law ought to provide a readily understandable means of reconciling the competing claims of the conservation of species of birds with those of a facility for the development, manufacture and testing of military aircraft... or determining which should have priority".

News & Media

The Guardian

The British ambassador to Romania was asked to attend a meeting on Friday in Bucharest with the minister for Romanians abroad, Cristian David, at which the importance of discussing immigration in a "balanced and rational way" was debated.

News & Media

The Guardian
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a decision-making process, use "rational" to emphasize that the decision was based on logic and evidence rather than emotion or impulse.

Common error

While "rational" is a strong descriptor for formal analysis, avoid overusing it in casual conversation where simpler words like "reasonable" or "sensible" might be more appropriate.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

94%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The adjective "rational" primarily functions to describe something as being based on reason or logic. Ludwig examples show its use in describing arguments, decisions, and individuals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rational" is a versatile adjective frequently used to describe something that is based on reason or logic. Ludwig examples, from news articles to formal business documents, confirm its widespread use in conveying objectivity and sound judgment. The word is considered grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, and while very common, writers should be mindful of its appropriate use in different contexts. Consider alternatives like "reasonable", "logical", or "sensible" to ensure the most precise communication.

FAQs

How can I use "rational" in a sentence?

You can use "rational" to describe decisions, arguments, or people that are based on reason and logic. For example, "The company made a "rational decision" to invest in renewable energy".

What are some synonyms for "rational"?

Alternatives include "reasonable", "logical", and "sensible". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the opposite of "rational"?

The opposite of "rational" is "irrational", which means not based on reason or logic.

When is it appropriate to use "rational" instead of "reasonable"?

"Rational" is best used when emphasizing the use of logical and systematic thought processes, whereas "reasonable" often implies fairness and moderation. Choose the word that best reflects the key element of the situation.

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Source & Trust

94%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: