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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
rational
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE 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
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
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
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
You're a rational person with an instinct for self-preservation.
News & Media
"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
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 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.
News & Media
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 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
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
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 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
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.
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.
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.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
well-reasoned
Explicitly points out the thoroughness and clarity of the reasoning process.
logical
Emphasizes adherence to the principles of valid reasoning.
reasonable
Focuses more on being fair and appropriate in specific circumstances.
sensible
Highlights practicality and good judgment.
sound
Indicates the robustness and validity of an argument or decision.
objective
Stresses impartiality and freedom from personal bias.
coherent
Suggests a clear and orderly presentation of thoughts.
consistent
Indicates a lack of contradiction in a set of beliefs or actions.
justifiable
Implies that there is a valid rationale or excuse behind something.
lucid
Emphasizes clarity and ease of understanding.
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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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
94%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested