Synonyms for rationale
Most common
Synonyms by meaning
Noun
1. Reasoning — an explanation of the basis or fundamental reasons for something
2. Explanation
Definitions
- n. 1
An explanation of the basis or fundamental reasons for something.
- n. 2
A justification or rationalization for something.
Forms
- Plural
- rationales → reasonings, rationalizations, reasons, explanations…
Example sentences
- reasoning We pointed out to him the error in his reasoning.
- explanation We shouldn't accept his explanation at face value.
- principle My father made it a principle to keep early hours.
Popularity over time
| Word | 1850 → 2019 | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| rationale | steady | |
| reasoning | rising | |
| rationalization | falling | |
| explanation | steady | |
| principle | steady |
Use in printed books, per decade from 1850 to 2019.
By length
- 6 letters
- reason2, theory2
- 9 letters
- principle3, reasoning3
- 10 letters
- exposition4
- 11 letters
- explanation4
- 15 letters
- rationalization6, rationalisation
The small number after each word is its number of syllables (reason2 = 2 syllables).