rationale for this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rationale for this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining the reasoning or justification behind a particular decision, action, or idea. Example: "The rationale for this approach is based on extensive research and analysis of previous case studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The rationale for this was precautionary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The rationale for this is clear.

The New York Times

He gives no rationale for this suggestion.

The Guardian - Opinion

The rationale for this mindboggling universal wiretap?

The Guardian - Opinion

I can see the rationale for this.

The Guardian - Opinion

I don't know the rationale for this.

The Guardian - Business

"There is no rationale for this expenditure".

The New York Times

No one has a rationale for this".

The New York Times

That is the rationale for this story.

The Guardian - Sport

The rationale for this was as follows.

Nature

The rationale for this decision is multifold.

Clinical Simulation Operations, Engineering, and Management

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rationale for this", ensure that the explanation is clear, concise, and directly relevant to the decision or action being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language or jargon when explaining the rationale. The goal is to provide a clear and understandable justification, not to confuse the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rationale for this" functions as a connector or introductory phrase, often used to introduce an explanation or justification for a preceding statement, action, or decision. As shown by Ludwig, it's commonly used across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

37%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Unknown/unmatched sources

11%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rationale for this" is a versatile expression used to introduce the reasoning or justification behind a decision, action, or idea. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. While alternatives like "reason for this" and "justification for this" exist, "rationale for this" often carries a more formal tone. When employing this phrase, clarity and relevance are key to ensuring effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

justification for this

Emphasizes the act of showing something to be right or reasonable.

reason for this

Focuses on providing a cause or explanation.

explanation for this

Highlights the act of making something clear and understandable.

basis for this

Indicates the underlying foundation or support for something.

grounds for this

Implies a solid foundation of facts or reasons.

motivation for this

Highlights the driving force or incentive behind an action.

purpose for this

Stresses the intended aim or objective.

the why behind this

A more informal way of asking for the reason or explanation.

the thinking behind this

Focuses on the thought process or reasoning that led to something.

underlying principle for this

Emphasizes the fundamental rule or belief that something is based on.

FAQs

What's a good way to use "rationale for this" in a sentence?

You can use "rationale for this" to introduce an explanation or justification. For example, "The "rationale for this" decision is based on extensive research".

What can I say instead of "rationale for this"?

You can use alternatives like "reason for this", "justification for this", or "explanation for this" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "rationale for this" and "reason for this"?

While similar, ""rationale for this"" often implies a more formal or detailed explanation compared to the more general "reason for this".

How formal is the phrase "rationale for this"?

"Rationale for this" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, and official contexts. In more casual settings, "reason for this" might be more appropriate.