want of reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "want of reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack of rational thought or justification in a particular situation or argument. Example: "His actions were driven by a want of reason, leading to poor decision-making."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

(Some say they do and want, for reason of their own, that we believe it). 2. All creativity is fueled by a little discomfort.

Huffington Post

Shakespeare says: HAMLET: …O, God! a beast, that wants discourse of reason, Would have mourn'd longer — married with my uncle, My father's brother, but no more like my father Than I to Hercules: within a month: Ere yet the salt of most unrighteous tears Had left the flushing in her galled eyes, She married.

The New York Times

What we have in the White House is a "beast that wants discourse of reason," as Hamlet characterized him some 414 years ago - an empty, cruel, self-seeking demagogue.

Huffington Post

A young adult's failed attempt at "suicide-by-jaguar" can be read as a Szymborska-esque victory over death, a Wittgensteinian attempt to learn what one truly is and a Dostoevskian expression of wanting over reason.

The New York Times

But for want of a reason to object, the Bank of France (on March 29th) and all other regulators have now cleared the bid.

The Economist

(You can't buy imported Japanese wagyu here, and you might not want to for reasons of welfare).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Find a fascinating PowerPoint on what makes outstanding music teaching which includes a discussion of what Ofsted want and reasons why only 7% of children take up music at key stage 4.

The Guardian

How do you establish a good relationship?Give the driver as much control as they want -- within reason, of course.

The New York Times

Patients in the Netherlands and in Belgium who want EAS for reason of their mental illness generally ask their psychiatrists to assess their request for assisted suicide or euthanasia.

BMC Family Practice

Don't think any of your opinions are too extreme; as long as you have evidence to back it up, you can say what you want - within reason and context of the essay of course.

Independent

Surely we would want reasons independent of history for reflectively endorsing some equilibrium.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "want of reason" to emphasize a fundamental lack of logical thinking or sound judgment in a situation. It often carries a slightly formal or literary tone.

Common error

Avoid using "want of reason" when a simple "lack of reason" suffices. The former implies a more profound deficiency or a deliberate disregard for logic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "want of reason" functions as a noun phrase that describes a deficiency or absence. It is typically used to indicate a lack of logical thought or sound judgment in a situation or action, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "want of reason" signifies a deficiency or absence of rational thought or justification. According to Ludwig AI, while grammatically correct and usable, this phrase carries a formal tone and is less common than simpler alternatives like "lack of reason". Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, its purpose is to critique or explain flawed decisions due to a lack of logic. When considering using "want of reason", it is important to consider the context and decide if a stronger emphasis on the lack of rational thinking is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of rationale

Focuses on the absence of a logical basis for something.

absence of justification

Highlights the lack of valid reasons or excuses.

deficiency of logic

Emphasizes the inadequacy in logical thinking.

scarcity of sense

Implies a limited amount of good judgment.

paucity of understanding

Indicates a limited grasp or awareness.

irrationality

Directly states the state of being without reason.

unreasonableness

Highlights the quality of not being reasonable.

folly

Implies foolishness or a lack of good sense.

lack of wisdom

Highlights a deficiency in wise thinking or behavior.

absurdity

Stresses the ridiculous or nonsensical nature of something.

FAQs

What does "want of reason" mean?

The phrase "want of reason" means a lack or deficiency of rational thought, sound judgment, or logical justification.

How can I use "want of reason" in a sentence?

You might say, "His decision was driven by a "want of reason", resulting in negative consequences." You can also check the real world examples to better understand how the phrase is used.

What are some alternatives to "want of reason"?

Alternatives include "lack of rationale", "absence of justification", or "irrationality". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "want of reason" a common phrase?

No, "want of reason" is not a very common phrase. "Lack of reason" is a more frequently used alternative to convey the same meaning.