What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rational
Example
It's not rational to spend all your money on something you don't need. [rational: adjective]
Example
She approached the problem in a rational way, considering all the available options. [rational: adverb]
wise
Example
It would be wise to save some money for emergencies. [wise: adjective]
Example
He wisely chose to invest in the stock market when the prices were low. [wisely: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wise is more commonly used than rational in everyday language. Wise is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while rational is more specific and often used in academic or scientific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rational and wise?
Rational is generally considered more formal than wise. It is often used in academic or scientific writing, while wise can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
