What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rationally
Example
She rationally explained her decision to the team. [rationally: adverb]
Example
It's important to approach this situation rationally and not let emotions cloud our judgment. [rationally: adverb]
reasonably
Example
The hotel prices were reasonably priced for the quality of service. [reasonably: adverb]
Example
It's reasonable to expect employees to work during business hours. [reasonable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reasonably is more commonly used than rationally in everyday language. Reasonably is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while rationally is less common and more specific to describing a thought process.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rationally and reasonably?
Both rationally and reasonably are generally considered formal words, but reasonably can also be used in informal contexts to describe something that is fair or sensible.
