the rationale for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the rationale for' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to explain why something is done a certain way or to explain the reasoning behind a decision. For example, "The rationale for introducing this new policy is to ensure better customer service."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

What's the rationale for that?

The New Yorker

The rationale for the deal is domestic.

The Economist

The rationale for this was precautionary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What would be the rationale for leaving?

The New Yorker

The rationale for this is clear.

The New York Times

The rationale for tenure is still valid.

The Economist

What's the rationale for maximizing protection?

The New Yorker

The rationale for this mindboggling universal wiretap?

The Guardian - Opinion

The rationale for consolidation is strong.

The New York Times

I can see the rationale for this.

The Guardian - Opinion

I don't know the rationale for this.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the rationale for", ensure you clearly articulate the reasons or justifications being presented. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific details and supporting evidence.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical or specialized language when explaining "the rationale for" something, especially when communicating with a general audience. Clarity and accessibility are key to effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the rationale for" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. It introduces the explanation or justification behind a decision, action, or belief. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples demonstrating this function across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the rationale for" is a versatile noun phrase used to introduce the reasons or justifications behind actions, decisions, or beliefs. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and prevalence across diverse contexts, notably News & Media and scientific domains. While semantically similar alternatives like "the reason for" or "the justification for" exist, "the rationale for" maintains a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for professional and academic writing. Remember to clearly articulate reasons and avoid jargon to effectively communicate the underlying rationale.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the justification for

Changes "rationale" to "justification", stressing the defense or support for an action.

the logic for

Replaces "rationale" with "logic", focusing on the reasoning behind something.

the reasoning for

Substitutes "rationale" with "reasoning", emphasizing the thought process involved.

the motivation for

Replaces "rationale" with "motivation", highlighting the driving force behind an action.

the explanation for

Replaces "rationale" with "explanation", focusing on clarifying the reasons behind something.

the basis for

Substitutes "rationale" with "basis", emphasizing the foundation or groundwork for an action.

the grounds for

Changes "rationale" to "grounds", highlighting the reasons or justifications for an action or decision.

the purpose of

Replaces "rationale" with "purpose", shifting the focus to the intended outcome or aim.

the cause of

Substitutes "rationale" with "cause", emphasizing the reason why something happened.

the aim of

Changes "rationale" to "aim", focusing on the intended goal or objective.

FAQs

What does "the rationale for" mean?

The phrase "the rationale for" refers to the underlying reasons, justification, or logical basis for a particular decision, action, or belief.

How can I use "the rationale for" in a sentence?

You can use "the rationale for" to introduce an explanation of why something is the way it is. For example, "The rationale for the new policy is to improve efficiency."

What can I say instead of "the rationale for"?

You can use alternatives like "the reason for", "the justification for", or "the explanation for", depending on the context.

Is "the rationale behind" the same as "the rationale for"?

While similar, "the rationale behind" and "the rationale for" have subtle differences. "The rationale behind" tends to focus more on the thought process, while "the rationale for" emphasizes the justification or reasons. They are often interchangeable but context may make one more suitable.