real reason for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "real reason for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to introduce the main, underlying, or true reason for something. For example: The real reason for his resignation was that he felt his skills were better suited to a different role.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But Israel has real reason for concern.

The New York Times

I never knew real reason for sure.

The New Yorker

The real reason for his death?

The New York Times

That was the real reason for hope.

Independent

The real reason for those bright colours?

The Guardian

The real reason for his action?

The New York Times

Never saw any real reason for it.

The New York Times

The real reason for the Brexit vote?

The Washington Post

Only Teflex Products knows the real reason for the delay.

Harvard University

But beyond that, is there any real reason for hope?

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"The only real reason [for the Pope] to visit Morelia is because of the narco violence.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "real reason for" to introduce the most accurate or fundamental explanation behind an event, decision, or situation, particularly when contrasting it with superficial or misleading reasons.

Common error

Avoid relying on "real reason for" too frequently in your writing. While effective, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your phrasing with alternatives like "true cause" or "underlying motive" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "real reason for" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a noun or noun phrase that identifies the actual or underlying cause, motive, or explanation for something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English. This is evident in the examples provided, such as "The real reason for the Brexit vote?"

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

17%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "real reason for" is a versatile and commonly used expression for highlighting the genuine or underlying cause behind events or decisions. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. Linguistic analysis reveals its neutral register and common usage in news, academic, and scientific contexts. To enhance writing, vary its usage with alternatives like "true cause of" or "underlying motive for" and clarify explanations rather than overusing. The phrase serves to clarify, emphasize, or reveal a cause or motive that might not be immediately apparent or is being obscured. Top sources include The New York Times, The Guardian and Forbes. Ultimately, employing this phrase effectively strengthens clarity and depth in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

true cause of

Emphasizes the genuineness of the cause.

actual explanation for

Highlights that it's a valid explanation not merely a cause.

underlying motive for

Focuses on the hidden or not immediately obvious motivation.

genuine basis for

Stresses the authenticity of the rationale.

primary driver of

Highlights the main force or impetus behind something.

core rationale for

Emphasizes the central logic or reasoning.

fundamental justification for

Points to the basic and essential reason.

mainspring of

Indicates the source of energy or motivation behind an action or event.

true impetus behind

Implies a driving force or initial cause that spurred an action.

chief determinant of

Highlights the decisive factor that influences an outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "real reason for" in a sentence?

The phrase "real reason for" is used to emphasize the genuine or underlying cause of something, often when it's different from what is commonly believed or stated. For example: The "real reason for" the company's success was their innovative marketing strategy.

What are some alternatives to using "real reason for"?

You can use alternatives like "true cause of", "actual explanation for", or "underlying motive for" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "reason for" and "real reason for"?

"Reason for" simply indicates a cause or explanation, while "real reason for" implies that the stated cause might be incomplete, misleading, or that there's a more fundamental explanation that should be considered.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "real reason for" in writing?

Use "real reason for" when you want to highlight a cause or explanation that is not immediately obvious or is being obscured by other factors. It's especially useful when contrasting the genuine cause with superficial or incorrect explanations.