What does "rationale" mean?
An explanation of the basis or fundamental reasons for something.
Rationale
/ˌɹæʃ.əˈnæl/ noun
noun ·Moderate ·High school level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: An explanation of the basis or fundamental reasons for something.
- Grammar: rationale is listed as noun.
- Nearest alternatives: account, account for individual differences, alibis, allegorization.
- Useful contrasts: baselessness, irrationality.
- Usage evidence: The rationale behind certain New Age treatments can be dangerously wrong.
How to use "rationale"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "rationale" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "rationale" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "rationale" as the right word for your sentence.
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Compare nearby meanings
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Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "rationale" is acting as noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "account" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
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Final meaning check
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When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 An explanation of the basis or fundamental reasons for something.
- 2 A liturgical vestment worn by some Christian bishops of various denominations. rare
"the local bishop, H.E. Gregor Maria Hanke, is shown wearing that rarest of liturgical garments, the rationale."
- 3 (law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature) wordnet
- 4 A justification or rationalization for something.
"He confirmed that Bashir successfully manipulated Diana’s paranoia by showing her brother, Earl Spencer, forged documents that “proved” her closest advisers had betrayed her to the palace, inflaming her desire to speak out for herself. Bashir lied his way to the biggest TV scoop of the 20th century. Dyson’s censure at least gave her two sons some rationale for why Diana did something so destructive to their happiness."
Synonyms
All synonymsAntonyms
Example
"The rationale behind certain New Age treatments can be dangerously wrong."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "rationale"?
Common synonyms include: account, account for individual differences, alibis, allegorization, amendment intent, apologias.
How do you use "rationale" in a sentence?
The rationale behind certain New Age treatments can be dangerously wrong.
How do you pronounce "rationale"?
Pronounced /ˌɹæʃ.əˈnæl/.
Etymology
Etymology 1
From Late Latin ratiōnāle.
Etymology 2
From Latin ratiōnāle.