What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reason
Example
I couldn't attend the party because I had to work. [reason: noun]
Example
She reasoned that it was better to wait until next week to make the purchase. [reasoned: verb]
rationale
Example
The rationale for the new policy was to increase efficiency. [rationale: noun]
Example
He presented a detailed rationale for his proposal at the meeting. [rationale: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reason is more common in everyday language than rationale, which is more often used in formal or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reason and rationale?
Rationale is generally considered more formal than reason, and is often used in academic or professional writing.
