the principal reason for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the principal reason for" is correct and can be used in written English.
You would typically use this phrase when you want to emphasize or point to the most important factor with regards to the topic you are discussing. For example, "The principal reason for the success of this project was the strong leadership that was provided."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The principal reason for withdrawing is to save money.

The New Yorker

Unexplained symptoms are the principal reason for more than 100 million doctor visits a year.

The New York Times - Health

That is the principal reason for a full-scale re-examination by a respected public body.

The New York Times

Over time, however, the principal reason for a declining rate is something else entirely.

The New York Times

The principal reason for the charge was the increase in value of their home in the northern home counties.

The Guardian

And although the explosion looks dramatic, the principal reason for the shutdown is severe and unexpected flooding.

The Guardian

The principal reason for its popularity is that, in the UK at least, possessing and inhaling nitrous oxide remains legal.

The Guardian

In fact email remains the principal reason for people to visit Yahoo; there are around 280m accounts.

The Guardian - Tech

The principal reason for the original law was to narrow a significant gap in compensation between men and women.

The New York Times

We should recognize that the principal reason for this continuing Pakistani policy has been its relationship with India.

The New York Times

He said that the principal reason for a visit that Mr. Gore plans to the state this week is to tape the "Tonight" show.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always consider whether a more specific term might be more appropriate depending on your context. For example, in a business context "the key driver" might be more effective.

Common error

While "the principal reason for" is a correct and useful phrase, overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "the main cause", "the primary motive", or "the key reason" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the principal reason for" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces the primary cause, motive, or explanation for a particular situation or event. Ludwig AI affirms that its usage is grammatically correct. It acts as a connector, linking an action or outcome to its most significant underlying factor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

57%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the principal reason for" is a grammatically sound and very commonly used phrase for highlighting the most significant cause or justification behind an event or decision. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is appropriate for use in written English. It's particularly prevalent in news and media and scientific contexts, though suitable across various communication styles. While effective, remember to vary your language to avoid repetition, using alternatives like "the main cause of" or "the key reason for". By following these guidelines, you can effectively use the phrase while maintaining clarity and engagement in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the main cause of

Focuses on the causal aspect rather than the justification.

the key reason for

Simple and direct, highlighting importance.

the primary motive for

Highlights the motivational aspect, implying a deliberate intention.

the chief factor in

Emphasizes the importance of the factor as a key element.

the central explanation for

Focuses on providing an account or understanding.

the prime driver of

Implies a force that propels or initiates something.

the foremost basis for

More formal, stressing the foundation or grounds for something.

the major determinant of

Highlights a factor that strongly influences an outcome.

the ultimate justification for

Emphasizes the final and decisive reason.

the underlying rationale for

Suggests a deeper, less obvious justification.

FAQs

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

Use "the principal reason for" to introduce the most important cause or justification for something. For example, "The principal reason for the company's success was its innovative marketing strategy".

What are some alternatives to "the principal reason for"?

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

Is it better to say "the principal reason for" or "the main reason for"?

Both "the principal reason for" and "the main reason for" are correct and can be used interchangeably. "Principal" suggests the most important reason, while "main" suggests a major reason. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "the principal reason for" and "the underlying rationale for"?

"The principal reason for" refers to the most obvious and direct cause or justification. "The underlying rationale for", on the other hand, suggests a more fundamental or less obvious justification.