Used and loved by millions
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
rationale upon which
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "rationale upon which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the reasoning or justification behind a decision, argument, or theory. Example: "The rationale upon which the committee based its decision was thoroughly examined during the meeting."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
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
4 human-written examples
Indeed, regulators should take notice that the allocation of exclusion rights to mass selectors refutes the rationale upon which this rather unique partially open innovation system is built.
This required course was designed to provide introductory information to students and assist them to understand the rationale upon which many therapy decisions are based.
Science
This report discusses the rationale upon which effects of an intervention on the lung periphery can be distinguished from those on more central airways.
The implications of the rationale upon which CAST has been built leads to a different calculation of the prevalence of dental caries, which is not based on the presence of a dmf/DMF count of ≥1 but on that of d/D ≥1.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
In an interview with MSNBC on Sunday, Wyden threatened to mount a filibuster if Congress reauthorizes Section 215 of the act, upon which the government has built its rationale for the bulk data collection revealed in 2013 by NSA leaker Edward Snowden.
News & Media
The authors discussed the rationale and alternative recommendations listed in the algorithms, and the evidence upon which the recommendations were made.
Science
One rationale for this is that the expression of conserved GRs, IRs, and ORs provides a Culicidae-wide chemoreceptive foundation upon which lineage-specific expansions of ORs can then dynamically and independently explore sequence and odor space within each lineage.
Science
The rationale for this study was to gain knowledge about the subjective usefulness and usage of different sources of information upon which orthopaedic surgeons base their decisions when acquiring new implants or techniques.
Upon which this stuff connects and moves.
News & Media
Upon which they ceased firing.
Wiki
upon which to expand.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "rationale upon which", ensure that the connection between the reasoning and the subsequent action or decision is clear and direct. This strengthens the logical flow of your argument or explanation.
Common error
Avoid unnecessary complexity by ensuring the phrase doesn't create convoluted sentences. Simpler alternatives like "reasoning behind" can often enhance clarity.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "rationale upon which" serves as a connector linking a justification or explanation to the subsequent decision or action. It introduces the foundation or reasoning behind a particular choice, as seen in Ludwig's examples.
Frequent in
Science
70%
News & Media
20%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Wiki
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "rationale upon which" is a grammatically correct, though relatively uncommon, way to express the underlying reasons or justifications for something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It frequently appears in scientific and news contexts, signifying a formal and structured explanation. While effective in clearly linking reasons to actions, simpler alternatives may enhance clarity in less formal settings. Remember to ensure a clear connection between the rationale and the subsequent action for optimal impact.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
basis on which
This alternative focuses on the foundation or groundwork for an idea or action, rather than the explanation.
reasoning behind
This phrase simplifies the expression, focusing on the thought process leading to a decision.
justification for
This alternative emphasizes the act of defending or vindicating a decision or action.
grounds for
This phrase highlights the reasons or evidence that support a particular stance or action.
underlying principle
This alternative shifts the focus to the fundamental belief or rule that guides a decision or action.
theoretical foundation
This phrase is suited to explain the underlying idea on which an argument is built.
premise for
This term indicates the foundational assumption that supports an argument or idea.
the why behind
This option is very concise, but maintains the core concept of the original phrase.
motivation for
This alternative concentrates on the driving force or incentive behind an action or decision.
purpose of
This alternative underlines the intended goal or aim behind a specific action or decision.
FAQs
How can I use "rationale upon which" in a sentence?
Use "rationale upon which" to introduce the reasons or justification for a particular decision, action, or belief. For example: "The rationale upon which the policy was based was thoroughly researched".
What are some alternatives to "rationale upon which"?
You can use alternatives like "basis on which", "reasoning behind", or "justification for" depending on the specific context.
Is "rationale upon which" considered formal language?
Yes, "rationale upon which" is generally considered a more formal expression. In less formal contexts, simpler phrases like "reason for" or "basis for" might be more appropriate.
What's the difference between "rationale" and the "reasoning"?
"Rationale" refers to a comprehensive explanation of the fundamental reasons for something, while "reasoning" describes the process of thinking and drawing conclusions. The reasoning behind something constitutes a more general explanation compared to the "rationale upon which" it is based.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested