thinkable rationale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thinkable rationale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a logical explanation or justification that is conceivable or plausible. Example: "In the debate about climate change, the thinkable rationale for immediate action is to prevent irreversible damage to our planet."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

This book makes it thinkable.

Princeton University

My rationale?

The New Yorker

How is such a comeback even thinkable?

The Guardian - Opinion

But it's thinkable, even probable.

The New Yorker

An idea once unthinkable is utterly thinkable.

The Guardian

The unthinkable becomes much more thinkable.

The New York Times

But, of course, it was very thinkable.

The New Yorker

A worse, less thinkable scenario loomed.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Let's stay with the thinkable.

The Guardian - Books

Her rationale?

The New York Times

I hadn't realised that that was thinkable.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thinkable rationale" when you want to emphasize that a justification, while perhaps not obvious, is within the realm of possibility and logical consideration. It's effective for opening minds to less conventional explanations.

Common error

While "thinkable rationale" is grammatically sound, it can sound somewhat informal or speculative in highly formal writing. In such contexts, opt for stronger, more direct alternatives like "valid justification" or "sound reasoning".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thinkable rationale" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "thinkable" modifies the noun "rationale". It serves to describe a type of reasoning or justification that is conceivable or within the realm of possibility. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "thinkable rationale" is a grammatically correct and understandable expression used to describe a justification that is conceivable or plausible, even if not immediately apparent. According to Ludwig AI, it's usable in written English. While not frequently encountered, its neutral tone makes it versatile for various contexts. The phrase can be effectively employed to broaden the scope of potential explanations. Related phrases include "plausible justification" and "conceivable explanation". When considering using "thinkable rationale", bear in mind that more formal options might be preferable in some contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plausible justification

Replaces "thinkable" with "plausible", indicating a reasonable and believable justification.

conceivable explanation

Substitutes "thinkable" with "conceivable" and "rationale" with "explanation", suggesting an understandable reason that can be imagined.

imaginable reason

Uses "imaginable" instead of "thinkable" and "reason" in place of "rationale", focusing on the capacity to envision the reason.

defensible logic

Replaces "thinkable" with "defensible" and "rationale" with "logic", implying that the reasoning can be supported and justified.

credible grounds

Emphasizes the believability of the basis for a decision or action.

tenable argument

Suggests an argument that can be maintained or defended against attack.

believable pretext

Implies an outward reason that is accepted as true, though the real reason may be different.

sustainable reasoning

Highlights that the reasoning can be maintained over time and is not easily refuted.

defensible reasoning

Suggests reasoning that can be defended or justified.

valid motive

Focuses on the legitimacy and soundness of the underlying cause or reason.

FAQs

How can I incorporate the phrase "thinkable rationale" into a sentence?

You can use "thinkable rationale" to introduce a reason or justification that might not be immediately apparent but is still plausible. For example: "The "thinkable rationale" for the unpopular decision was to ensure the company's long-term survival."

What are some alternatives to saying "thinkable rationale"?

Alternatives include "plausible justification", "conceivable explanation", or "imaginable reason". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "thinkable rationale" always the best phrase to use, or are there situations where it's less appropriate?

While "thinkable rationale" is grammatically correct, it may not be suitable for highly formal or technical writing. In such cases, more precise terms like "valid justification" or "sound reasoning" might be preferable.

What is the difference between "thinkable rationale" and "plausible rationale"?

"Thinkable rationale" suggests that a justification is within the realm of possibility, whereas "plausible rationale" /s/plausible+rationale implies that the justification is believable and likely to be true. The former emphasizes possibility, while the latter stresses credibility.