irrationally

[ih-rash-uh-nl-ee, -rash-nl-]

adverb

1. in a way that is contrary to reason or is not sensible; illogically.

   In firing a highly competent CEO without cause, the Board acted unlawfully, unreasonably, and irrationally.

   Stick to your simple calculation and logic, even when markets are behaving irrationally.

2. in a way that is driven by impulse or instinct rather than reason; without having or being able to use the faculty of reason.

   When a reporter started poking around, the suspect began acting irrationally and took off like a wild animal.

Other Word Forms

• nonirrationally adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of irrationally¹

First recorded in 1640–50; irrational ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

"The rational world is behaving irrationally by giving him this welcome," she said.

From BBC

Tom Cross KC, barrister for the two women, told the court that in deciding the clinic should continue to be registered, "the CQC has acted irrationally".

From BBC

He's abandoning Ukraine, which he irrationally hates, probably because he associates it with his humiliating first impeachment.

From Salon

I can sometimes get irrationally upset by movies with an incredible premise that is poorly executed.

From Salon

Daniel Kahnemann suggested that, on the contrary, they often act irrationally, based on instinct.

From BBC

Related Words

• foolishly www.thesaurus.com
• stupidly www.thesaurus.com
• unreasonably www.thesaurus.com