rationale
rash-uh-NAL
/ˌræʃəˈnæl/
A set of reasons or a logical basis for a course of action or a particular belief.
Unlike a simple 'reason', a rationale implies a structured, systematic, and often written-out logical framework.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Latin 'rationalis', which pertains to the ability to think. It entered English in the 17th century to describe the underlying logic of a theory.
Word relationships
- logic: Logic is the system of reasoning; rationale is the specific application of that system to a choice.
- arbitrariness: Decisions made without any logical basis or reason.
Commonly confused with
- rationalization: A rationale is a genuine logical basis; a rationalization is a fake logical basis used to justify a bad act.
Word family
- rational (adjective): Based on or in accordance with reason or logic.
Collocations
- underlying rationale
- economic rationale
- provide a rationale
Example sentences
- "The CEO provided a detailed rationale for the merger, citing long-term market stability." A business manager explaining a new strategy.
- "The rationale for using a double-blind study was to eliminate any potential researcher bias." From a scientific journal discussing methodology.
Memory hook
It sounds like 'rational'—if your plan is rational, you have a good rationale. The 'why' behind the 'what'.
When not to use
Do not use 'rationale' for emotional or impulsive reasons; it requires a sense of deliberate logic.
Fun facts
- In mathematics, a 'rational' number is one that can be expressed as a ratio—linking logic and math directly.
Related words
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