rationale that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rationale that" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce or explain the reasoning or justification behind a decision or action. For example: The company's rationale that reducing staff would increase profits ended up backfiring, as the remaining employees were overworked and morale suffered. The school board provided a thorough rationale that implementing a dress code would promote a more professional learning environment. The government's rationale that raising taxes would improve public services was met with widespread criticism from taxpayers. In all of these examples, "rationale that" is used to explain the reasoning behind a decision or action taken by someone or an organization. It can also be used to introduce a statement that supports or justifies a particular belief or argument.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"There is a Bush rationale that runs through Vic Mackey.

The Guardian

Now that's a rationale that should get their attention.

The New Yorker

So suggests one rationale that has been going the rounds.

The New York Times

Precisely the rationale that has been discredited before.

The Guardian - Opinion

SK Telecom defended the purchase using a rationale that left some corporate critics even more perplexed.

The New York Times

This, then, is when the moralizing rationale that draws on dehumanizing propaganda comes into play.

The New Yorker

In fact, the plan was uncontroversial; it was the rationale that struck me.

The Guardian - Opinion

But elsewhere, there's a rationale that could only come from the ranks of true believers.

The Guardian - Film

"Since Sept. 11, it is possible to articulate an energy-security rationale that can offset environmental criticism.

The New York Times

"It's more about relevance," she said — a retrofitted rationale that had done little to quell the outrage.

The New Yorker

Of all the former Qaddafi loyalists I spoke with, only one offered a rationale that went beyond money or compulsion.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rationale that", ensure that the subsequent clause clearly and directly explains the reasoning behind a decision, action, or belief. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific details.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "rationale that" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "the reason is" or "because" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rationale that" functions as a connector, introducing a clause that explains or justifies a preceding statement. It provides the reasoning or basis for an action, decision, or belief. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rationale that" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression for introducing an explanation or justification. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While versatile, it's most common in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, offering a more structured and deliberate tone than simpler alternatives. When using this phrase, ensure the subsequent clause provides a clear and detailed reasoning, and consider the formality of your context to determine if a simpler alternative might be more appropriate. The phrase's prevalence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its acceptance in standard English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reason being that

Replaces "rationale" with "reason", emphasizing the cause or justification.

the explanation is that

Substitutes "rationale" with "explanation", focusing on clarifying the underlying reasons.

the justification for that

Uses "justification" instead of "rationale", highlighting the defense or support for a decision.

the logic behind that

Replaces "rationale" with "logic", stressing the reasoning or system of principles.

the grounds on which

Emphasizes the basis or foundation for a belief or action, offering a more formal tone.

the thinking behind that

Focuses on the thought process or reasoning that led to a particular conclusion or decision.

the premise is that

Highlights the initial assumption or proposition that serves as the basis for a conclusion.

the argument being that

Uses "argument" to indicate a reasoned case presented to persuade or convince.

the theory is that

Implies a set of ideas used to explain facts or events, replacing "rationale" with a more structured approach.

the idea is that

Substitutes "rationale" with "idea", suggesting a plan or suggestion as the underlying reason.

FAQs

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

Use "rationale that" to introduce an explanation or justification for something. For example, "The company's "rationale that" reducing staff would increase profits proved incorrect."

What are some alternatives to "rationale that"?

Alternatives include phrases like "reason being that", "the explanation is that", or "the justification for that", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "rationale that" and "reason that"?

"Rationale" implies a more formal and structured justification, whereas "reason" is a more general term. Using ""rationale that"" suggests a well-thought-out and often documented basis for a decision.

When is it appropriate to use "rationale that" over other similar phrases?

Use ""rationale that"" in formal writing, academic papers, or business reports where a clear and logical explanation is required. In more casual settings, simpler phrases are often preferred.