the basic reason for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the basic reason for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce the fundamental explanation or justification for a particular situation or action. Example: "The basic reason for the project's delay was a lack of resources and manpower."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

"I told Snow the basic reason for the split was that science gave up models".

The New Yorker

In this work, the basic reason for the generation of spurious numerical waves is first examined.

Journal of Computational Physics

Personally, I think the basic reason for the widespread feebleness in dealing with the Serbian monsters lay elsewhere.

The Guardian - Books

"The basic reason for doing this is to improve the position of the Academy Awards with regard to ratings and viewership," Mr. Pavlik said.

The New York Times

"The basic reason for this," Mr. Quest explained, "is that such tickets require immediate purchase by credit card and offer limited flexibility in terms of changes and cancellations".

The New York Times

But the basic reason for Bush's waffling on China is this: the White House has long been getting a warped assessment of the Chinese threat from the Central Intelligence Agency.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Rather, it invokes independent principles of practical reasoning that articulate the basic reasons for action.

SEP

What were the basic reasons for his reti cence?

The New York Times

But the basic reasons for total forgetfulness lie in the original briefs.

The Guardian

The basic reasons for its longevity are the high lesional conspicuity and technological changes in gamma camera design.

Seminars in Nuclear Medicine

"However, I also feel that unless we are to be further demotivated that we should be given the basic reasons for reaching an alternative decision.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the basic reason for" to introduce a concise explanation, especially when simplifying complex issues. This helps your audience grasp the core rationale quickly.

Common error

Avoid presenting a superficial or immediate cause as "the basic reason for" if deeper, more fundamental factors are at play. Always consider the underlying context and potential root causes to ensure accuracy and depth in your explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the basic reason for" functions as a connector introducing a fundamental explanation or justification. It is commonly used to highlight the primary cause or motive behind a situation, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

44%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the basic reason for" is a versatile phrase used to introduce the fundamental cause or explanation behind a situation or event. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While alternatives like "the fundamental cause of" or "the primary motive for" exist, each carries a slightly different nuance. When using this phrase, ensure the reason provided is truly the most fundamental to avoid oversimplification and to enhance clarity for your audience. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for various communication styles, emphasizing its widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the fundamental cause of

Focuses on the underlying cause rather than a general reason.

the primary motive for

Emphasizes the motivation or intention behind an action.

the main justification for

Highlights the rationale or defense for a decision or action.

the underlying explanation for

Suggests a deeper, less obvious reason.

the principal factor in

Indicates the most important element contributing to a result.

the key determinant of

Highlights the critical element that decides an outcome.

the root cause of

Implies a deeper, often hidden, origin of a problem.

the essential element of

Focuses on the indispensable part contributing to something.

the core driver behind

Emphasizes the force that propels or influences something.

the ultimate rationale for

Highlights the final and decisive reason.

FAQs

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

Use "the basic reason for" to introduce the primary explanation or justification for a situation or action. For example, "The basic reason for the project's delay was a lack of resources".

What phrases are similar to "the basic reason for"?

You can use alternatives like "the fundamental cause of", "the primary motive for", or "the main justification for" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "the basic reason for"?

While it can sometimes be redundant, "the basic reason for" emphasizes that you are providing the most fundamental explanation. Consider if the emphasis is necessary for clarity.

When is it better to use "the main reason" instead of "the basic reason for"?

Use "the main reason" when you want to highlight the most significant reason among several, whereas "the basic reason for" emphasizes the fundamental or underlying explanation. They are often interchangeable, but the nuance differs.