substantive reasons why

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantive reasons why" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing significant or meaningful justifications for a particular argument or decision. Example: "The committee provided substantive reasons why the proposal should be approved, emphasizing its potential benefits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

At a moment when authors are putting everything they have ever written into digital format, people thought that surely there must have been more substantive reasons why Penguin was upset.

The New York Times

Yes, we tend to exaggerate the geographic differences — one league, same ball, large bodies — but there are also substantive reasons why the West has long been known as the conference of quiche-eaters.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"There was zero substantive reason why this couldn't have been eighty votes," he said.

The New Yorker

He has already produced a series of ads which even Mr Rove has criticised for going too far.Playing for keepsThere is a more substantive reason why the culture wars remain at the heart of American politics.

The Economist

A momentary shadow was cast over the Newark ceremony when Booker asked the crowd to speak if they knew of any "substantive reason" why Panessidi and Bell should not be wed.

The Guardian

But having said all that, there's another, more substantive reason why the conspiracy theories survive: the official version of events begs questions; in some aspects, it beggars belief.

The New Yorker

Perhaps the most substantive reason why advocates have rejected the "assisted suicide" label has to do with legal strategy.

Vice

The reasons why this technology has been essential are examined.

Advances in Space Research

There were, then, many reasons why Darwin should have been disposed in The Descent of Man to shrink from any substantive discussion of whether extinct human relatives might actually be represented in fossil form.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

He offered two reasons why.

The Economist

That said, there are plenty of substantive reasons for singling out cotton.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantive reasons why", ensure that the reasons you provide are not superficial but offer a real depth of explanation. Always back up claims with evidence or logical arguments.

Common error

Avoid presenting reasons that lack specific details or supporting evidence when employing "substantive reasons why". Instead, provide clear, detailed justifications that can withstand scrutiny.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantive reasons why" functions as a connector introducing a detailed explanation or justification. It sets the expectation that the subsequent reasons will be significant and well-supported. As shown by Ludwig, it is used to preface explanations in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantive reasons why" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce significant and well-supported explanations. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears primarily in news and media and scientific contexts. While it's not very common, it adds weight to the reasons provided, suggesting a deeper and more thorough justification. When employing this phrase, ensure that the subsequent reasons are indeed substantive and backed by evidence to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compelling reasons for

Emphasizes the persuasiveness or convincing nature of the reasons.

significant grounds for

Highlights the importance and validity of the justification.

valid justifications for

Focuses on the legitimacy and soundness of the reasons.

legitimate basis for

Indicates a lawful or acceptable foundation for the reasoning.

material causes for

Stresses the relevance and importance of the causes.

sound rationale behind

Highlights the logical and well-reasoned nature of the basis.

genuine explanations for

Underlines the authenticity and truthfulness of the explanations.

well-founded explanations for

Implies a solid and demonstrable basis for the explanations.

concrete motives for

Emphasizes the tangible and specific nature of the motives.

serious considerations for

Highlights the weight and importance of the reasons.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "substantive reasons why" in a sentence?

To effectively use "substantive reasons why" in a sentence, present it as an introduction to a series of well-supported and significant explanations. For example, "The report outlined the "compelling reasons why" the project should be approved." Ensure the reasons are detailed and evidence-based.

What are some alternatives to "substantive reasons why" that I can use?

Some alternatives to "substantive reasons why" include "compelling reasons for", "significant grounds for", or "valid justifications for". The choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "substantive reasons why" and "main reasons why"?

"Substantive reasons why" implies that the reasons are not only primary but also significant, detailed, and well-supported. "Main reasons why" simply indicates the primary explanations without necessarily emphasizing their depth or quality. Therefore, substantive suggests more in-depth and compelling rationales.

When is it appropriate to use "substantive reasons why" in formal writing?

It is appropriate to use "substantive reasons why" in formal writing when you need to provide explanations that are thorough, well-supported, and carry significant weight. This is particularly useful in academic papers, legal documents, and business reports where detailed justification is essential.