that is really why

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is really why" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the reason behind a statement or action, often in a conversational or explanatory context. Example: "I decided to move to a new city, and that is really why I left my old job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

That is really why the peace process collapsed.

The New York Times

"But the current cycle is largely due to external factors and that is really why we are at this historic low".

The New York Times

That is really why we came to see you.

Huffington Post

That is really why we built the product -- to ensure that we are adding value to the everyday fashion shopper's online experience and it feels good to see the data reflect that.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"That's really why this is happening".

The New York Times

"That's really why I went back.

The Guardian - Sport

That's really why I was offered the role.

The New York Times - Arts

That's really why text messages are kept short.

The New York Times

"That's really why I came to America".

The New York Times

That's really why: we left on a positive note".

The New York Times - Sports

That's really why I'm a choreographer: It's how I understand the world.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add emphasis, vary your sentence structure by placing "that is really why" at the beginning or end of the clause for dramatic effect.

Common error

Avoid using "that is really why" excessively in formal writing; opt for more sophisticated causal conjunctions like "therefore", "consequently", or "as a result" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is really why" functions as a causal connector, introducing the actual or primary reason behind a statement or event. It emphasizes the explanation, as shown in Ludwig's examples where it connects actions with their underlying motives.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is really why" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce the authentic or main reason behind a situation, action, or decision. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is commonly found in news and media. While effective for clear communication, it is advisable to use it sparingly in highly formal contexts, opting for more sophisticated alternatives to maintain a professional tone. Understanding its function and appropriate register ensures its effective use in writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's the real reason

Emphasizes the genuine or underlying reason.

that is the actual reason

Highlights the factual basis for something.

the genuine cause is

Focuses on the authentic source or origin.

that explains the reason

Clarifies the rationale or justification.

that is the reason actually

Inserts "actually" to reinforce the real reason.

the primary motive is

Specifies the main incentive or driver.

the fundamental reason is

Stresses the basic or essential cause.

that is specifically why

Adds "specifically" to highlight the particular reason.

that's truly the explanation

Uses "truly" to emphasize the authenticity of the explanation.

it all boils down to

Indicates that the issue can be simplified to a core reason.

FAQs

How can I use "that is really why" in a sentence?

Use "that is really why" to introduce the primary reason or cause behind a statement. For example, "The project failed, and "that is really why" we need a new strategy".

What are some alternatives to "that is really why"?

Alternatives include "that is the real reason", "that explains the reason", or "the primary motive is", depending on the level of emphasis and formality you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to start a sentence with "that is really why"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "that is really why" is grammatically correct and can be effective for emphasis, particularly in conversational or explanatory contexts. However, avoid overuse in formal writing.

What's the difference between "that is really why" and "that's really why"?

"That is really why" and "that's really why" are essentially the same in meaning. "That's really why" is a contraction and is more informal, while "that is really why" is slightly more formal but still suitable for most general contexts.