ultimate reasons

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ultimate reasons" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the fundamental or most important explanations for a particular phenomenon or decision. Example: "In philosophy, scholars often seek to understand the ultimate reasons behind human behavior and morality."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

The ultimate reasons for the collapse will lie in the failure of multiple human natures to become one humanity capable of adapting itself to conditions which human beings, with their science and technology, have themselves produced.

The New York Times

According to Raz, practical authorities mediate between subjects and the ultimate reasons for which they should act.

SEP

In §191 of his Cosmologia, Wolff states: "In the [atomic] elements are contained the ultimate reasons of that which is perceived in material things".

SEP

Social sources can play this mediating role between persons and ultimate reasons, and because the nature of law is partly determined by its role in giving practical guidance, there is a theoretical reason for stopping at source-based considerations.

SEP

Madell's thinking there is that, while desires that will yield no pleasure at the time of their fulfillment fail to provide ultimate reasons for action, this will not be so with desires that are simultaneously satisfied.

SEP

Models were compared in such a way that the reasons of the discrepancies between them can be assessed (i.e., if they are due to the hydrodynamic part, the dispersion part, and the ultimate reasons).

Journal of Environmental Radioactivity

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

But according to Reuters, price was the ultimate reason why he deal was abandoned.

The New York Times

"But the ultimate reason we're here is that the land came up.

The New York Times

The ultimate reason why so much of this works is down to Sarandon herself.

The Guardian - Film

Andrea Huguely, a spokeswoman for American, said that the ultimate reason for a cancellation prevails — in this case, bad weather.

The New York Times - Travel

Perhaps the ultimate reason, however, is simply that in 27 years the CHP had made too many enemies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ultimate reasons", ensure you're addressing the most fundamental or conclusive explanations, not just contributing factors. Clearly distinguish between proximate and "ultimate reasons" to provide a comprehensive analysis.

Common error

Avoid presenting proximate causes as "ultimate reasons". Proximate causes are immediate triggers, while "ultimate reasons" are the deeper, underlying factors that explain why those triggers exist in the first place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ultimate reasons" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the most fundamental explanations or causes for a given situation, as illustrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ultimate reasons" is a grammatically sound phrase used to identify the most fundamental causes behind events or phenomena. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its frequency is uncommon, primarily appearing in scientific, news, and encyclopedia sources. When using this phrase, ensure you're addressing the core drivers and not just immediate triggers. Consider alternatives like "fundamental causes" or "root causes" depending on the context. The phrase is best suited for formal and analytical contexts, providing in-depth explanations rather than casual conversation. Avoid confusing proximate causes with "ultimate reasons" to ensure clarity in your analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental causes

Focuses on the basic and essential causes.

root causes

Indicates the deepest, most basic reasons behind a problem.

underlying motives

Emphasizes the motivations that drive actions.

primary drivers

Highlights the key factors that propel a process or event.

core explanations

Points to the central and most important explanations.

basic rationale

Stresses the logical basis or justification.

principal grounds

Highlights the main reasons or justifications.

key determinants

Focuses on the factors that decisively influence an outcome.

essential justifications

Stresses the most vital reasons that support an action or belief.

deepest sources

Suggests the most profound and foundational origins.

FAQs

What does "ultimate reasons" mean?

The phrase "ultimate reasons" refers to the most fundamental or basic causes or explanations for a particular phenomenon or event. It goes beyond immediate triggers to address the deeper, underlying factors.

How can I use "ultimate reasons" in a sentence?

You can use "ultimate reasons" to explain the core drivers behind an event. For example: "The "ultimate reasons" for the company's failure were a combination of poor management and changing market conditions."

What are some alternatives to "ultimate reasons"?

Alternatives to "ultimate reasons" include "fundamental causes", "underlying motives", or "root causes". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "ultimate reasons" and "primary reasons"?

While both refer to important causes, "ultimate reasons" suggests a more fundamental or conclusive explanation, whereas "primary reasons" may simply be the most immediate or obvious factors.