noun
Etymology
Origin of rationale
First recorded in 1650–60; from Latin: neuter of ratiōnālis rational
Explanation
The rationale for something is the basic or underlying reason or explanation for it. This noun (pronounced "rash-uh-NAL") is usually used in the singular: What was the rationale behind his decision to quit? The related adjective rational means "based on facts or reason" or "having the ability to think clearly." An example of a rational rationale? You add extra baking soda to pancake batter under the rationale that if you want them to be fluffier, you need more rising agent. Rationale is from Latin, from rationalis "relating to reason," from ratio "calculation, reason," from rērī "to consider, think."
Vocabulary lists containing rationale
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Rationale: Following a poor drive into the trees, punch the ball back into the fairway.
From Golf Digest • Apr. 21, 2017
Rationale: What better gift than sharing the sport you hold so dear?
From Golf Digest • Apr. 21, 2017
Document: The Legal Rationale for Surveillance The Obama administration on Friday released documents related to the legal basis for surveillance efforts.
From New York Times • Aug. 9, 2013
Rationale: Beavers, now 14th-ranked, are the only unbeaten besides Oregon in the conference.
From Seattle Times • Oct. 1, 2012
He was the author of a "Rationale upon the Book of Common Prayer," 1657.
From Bell's Cathedrals: The Cathedral Church of Norwich A Description of Its Fabric and A Brief History of the Episcopal See by Quennell, C. H. B. (Charles Henry Bourne)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
