what is the precise reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what is the precise reason" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are seeking a specific explanation or justification for something. Example: "Can you clarify what is the precise reason for the delay in the project timeline?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

And just what is the precise reason for this "contrast?" The AMA failed to specify, but to anyone who has followed this issue, the answer is painfully obvious.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

So what is the precise legal position regarding these websites?

The Guardian

What is the precise function of H.I.V.'s genes?

The New York Times - Health

What is the precise shape of this global hierarchy?

Princeton University

What is the precise tally of that $8 million?

Huffington Post

What is the precise effect of pregnancy on MS?

Biology of Sex Differences

What is the precise meaning of these dimensions?

Biology Direct

What is the precise mechanism of the neoplastic transformation, and what roles do chaperones specifically play?

Chinese Journal of Cancer

What are the precise mechanisms involved?

Princeton University

What I have trouble grasping, though, is the precise reason Paul thinks the economy has settled into its current unemployment and underemployment trap.

Huffington Post

This is the precise reason that NSA provides Congress with a special immunity to its surveillance.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow the phrase with a clearly defined subject or context to ensure the inquiry is understood. For instance, "What is the precise reason for the project delay?" provides a clear focus.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex vocabulary around the phrase "what is the precise reason". Keep the sentence structure clear and straightforward for maximum impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what is the precise reason" functions as an interrogative phrase used to elicit a specific, detailed explanation or justification for a particular event, action, or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what is the precise reason" is a grammatically sound and frequently used interrogative phrase that seeks a specific and detailed explanation. According to Ludwig, its correct usage spans across various contexts, from news and media to science and academia. While similar phrases like "what is the exact cause" or "why exactly" offer alternatives, the phrase's emphasis on accuracy and thoroughness makes it a valuable tool in clear and effective communication. Remember to maintain clarity in your sentence structure to achieve maximum impact when posing this question.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what is the exact cause

Replaces "precise reason" with "exact cause", emphasizing the root cause of something.

what is the specific explanation

Substitutes "precise reason" with "specific explanation", highlighting the need for a detailed explanation.

what is the real rationale

Emphasizes the logical basis behind an action or decision.

what is the definite justification

Replaces "precise reason" with "definite justification", stressing the need for a solid, defensible reason.

what is the fundamental basis

Highlights the core reason or principle upon which something is based.

what is the underlying motive

Focuses on the hidden or not immediately obvious reason.

what is the clear purpose

Focuses on the intended outcome or goal.

why exactly

A shorter, more direct way to ask for the precise reason.

what prompts this

Focuses on the trigger or initiator of an action or event.

what is the impetus behind this

Emphasizes the driving force or motivation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "what is the precise reason" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "what is the specific justification?" or "what is the definitive rationale?" These alternatives add a layer of professional distance while maintaining the core meaning.

Is there a shorter alternative to "what is the precise reason"?

Yes, you can use "why exactly?" as a concise alternative. It conveys the same request for a detailed explanation but in a more direct manner.

What's the difference between "what is the reason" and "what is the precise reason"?

While both phrases inquire about a cause or explanation, "what is the precise reason" seeks a more specific, detailed, and exact explanation than the general "what is the reason".

How to use "what is the precise reason" in a sentence?

You can use "what is the precise reason" by following it with 'for' and the subject. For example: "What is the precise reason for the change in policy?" or "What is the precise reason this happened?".