the reasoning is simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the reasoning is simple" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain a concept or idea that is easy to understand. Example: "When it comes to budgeting, the reasoning is simple: spend less than you earn."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The reasoning is simple: Chelsea expect a Barcelona goal.

The Guardian - Sport

The reasoning is simple when viewed through the lens of retributive theory.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The reasoning is simple: for journeys of up to three hours, the airlines find it difficult to compete with trains.

The New York Times - Travel

The reasoning is simple: in a downturn, business travellers and tourists alike will more readily trade comfort for price.

The Economist

The reasoning is simple, much the same it was for the abolition of prohibition more than 80 years ago.

Independent

The reasoning is simple: Grohl drummed for Nirvana, where he was not the front man, and then started a band of his own where he did not drum but where he was the front man.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The reasoning was simple, said Michael Beschloss, the presidential historian.

The New York Times

The reasoning was simple: Half of Target's sales in the intimate apparel category happen in that period.

The New York Times

Mr. Baquet, who ran the afternoon news meeting at which the decision was made, said the reasoning was simple enough: "I didn't think there was anything significantly new in it," he said.

The New York Times

The reasoning was simple: if everyone registered their trials at the beginning, we could easily spot which results were withheld; and since everyone wants to publish in prominent academic journals, these editors had the perfect carrot.

The New York Times

The reasoning was simple: besides providing an irresistible target for enemy (and, in some cases, friendly) fire, an unattached balloon was at the mercy of the winds, and, as Lowe himself had found, wind currents were neither predictable nor fully understood at the time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the reasoning is simple" to introduce a straightforward explanation or justification, ensuring clarity and ease of understanding for your audience.

Common error

While effective, avoid overuse. Vary your language by using "the logic is straightforward" or "the explanation is clear" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the reasoning is simple" functions as an introductory statement. It signals that the explanation or justification about to be presented is easy to understand. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common and acceptable phrase across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the reasoning is simple" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a straightforward explanation. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "the logic is straightforward". This phrase is your go-to when you want to ensure your audience grasps an idea quickly and effortlessly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the logic is straightforward

Replaces "reasoning" with "logic" and "simple" with "straightforward", emphasizing the clear and uncomplicated nature of the justification.

the explanation is clear

Focuses on the clarity of the explanation rather than the reasoning itself.

the rationale is evident

Uses "rationale" to refer to the underlying reasons and "evident" to highlight its obviousness.

the justification is uncomplicated

Emphasizes the lack of complexity in the justification provided.

it's easy to understand why

Shifts the focus to the ease of comprehension.

the grounds are self-explanatory

Highlights that the reasons are obvious without needing further explanation.

the principle is elementary

Implies that the underlying principle is basic and easily grasped.

the idea is basic

Replaces 'reasoning' with 'idea' and conveys that the underlying idea is fundamental.

the core argument is clear

Highlights the clarity of the argument at the center of the reasoning.

it's plain to see why

Emphasizes that the reason is easily apparent.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "the reasoning is simple" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "the rationale is evident" or "the justification is uncomplicated". These options lend a more professional and sophisticated feel to your writing.

What's the difference between "the reasoning is simple" and "the logic is simple"?

While similar, "reasoning" refers to the thought process, whereas "logic" refers to the system of principles governing that thought process. Therefore, "the logic is straightforward" emphasizes the structure of the argument, and "the reasoning is simple" focuses on the ease of understanding the thought behind it.

Is it appropriate to use "the reasoning is simple" in academic writing?

Yes, it's appropriate as long as it introduces a genuinely simple and clear point. However, be sure the simplicity doesn't undermine the depth expected in academic discourse. Always support your claims with evidence.

Can "the reasoning is simple" be used to introduce a complex idea?

It's best to reserve "the reasoning is simple" for instances where the core idea is truly straightforward. For complex ideas, consider using introductory phrases like "the underlying principle is..." or "the core concept involves..."