reason for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reason for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing a clause that explains the justification for a particular action or statement. For example, "The reason for my decision to move was to be closer to family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Therefore all good reasons for punishment do not apply".

Vice

My primary reason for applying for this internship is because you have been in this area of work for the past 50 years and have a global reach.

Cover Letter

That was the reason for my participation.

SEP

And that was probably the reason for my interpretation.

BMJ Open

The dealers we spoke to scored points for rapid response, but one refused to quot a price over the phone and was generally pushy and unhelpful.

Forbes

My strategy: apply for everything.

Science Magazine

The reason being that I applied for a new work permit and then there was this long period of waiting and I could not get my work permit.

Global Health Action

HoustonStreet.com (Private) www.houstonstreet.com CHIEFEXECUTIVE: Frank Getman MODEL: Marketplace DESCRIPTION: HoustonStreet is a tool for traders, using XML technology to "push" quots to Web browsers in real-time, much like terminals on proprietary systems such as Bloomberg.

Forbes

It filed for exchange status in 1999 to get their quots on NYSE-listed stocks more widely displayed and to get more say over how their Nasdaq quots are distributed.

Forbes

There are four reasons for my optimism.

The New York Times

He was my reason for doing it.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reason for" to clearly introduce the cause or justification behind a particular action, decision, or event to enhance clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid redundant phrasing such as "the reason why" when "reason for" suffices. For example, use "the reason for the delay" instead of "the reason why the delay happened" for conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reason for" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a noun or noun phrase that provides an explanation or cause. It connects the subject to the justification behind it, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reason for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to introduce the cause, justification, or explanation behind a particular subject. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability across various contexts. While its register is neutral, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication, it's crucial to avoid redundant constructions like "the reason why". Alternatives such as "cause of" or "explanation for" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey. The phrase's prevalence in news, scientific, and formal business contexts underscores its versatility and importance in clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause of

Focuses on the direct cause or origin of something.

explanation for

Highlights the act of clarifying or making something understandable.

justification for

Emphasizes the reasons or evidence to support an action or belief.

basis for

Indicates the foundation or underlying principle.

rationale behind

Stresses the logical or reasoned explanation.

purpose of

Highlights the intended aim or objective.

motivation for

Emphasizes the driving force or incentive.

grounds for

Focuses on the legal or justifiable reasons.

the why of

A more informal way to ask for or explain the cause or reason.

account for

This implies to provide sufficient reasons to explain why something happened.

FAQs

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

You can use "reason for" to introduce an explanation or justification. For example, "The "reason for my departure" is to pursue new opportunities".

What are some alternatives to "reason for"?

Alternatives include "cause of", "explanation for", or "justification for", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is more appropriate: "reason for" or "reason why"?

"Reason for" is generally more concise and preferred. "Reason why" is sometimes used, but "reason for" often results in a more streamlined sentence.

What's the difference between "reason for" and "purpose of"?

"Reason for" typically explains the cause or justification behind something, while "purpose of" indicates the intended aim or objective. For example, "The "reason for the meeting"" (cause) vs. "The "purpose of the meeting"" (objective).