Reasons Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reasons

[หˆriหzษ™nz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

for making decisions

Causes or explanations that justify or provide a basis for a particular course of action or belief.

Synonyms

explanation, justification, rationale.

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Word Description / Examples
reasons

Use when discussing the causes or motivations behind something. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • The reasons for his resignation were never disclosed
  • | There are many reasons why this project is delayed
justification

Use when providing a valid argument or rationale for something, especially when it is being questioned or doubted. It often appears in formal or critical discussions.

  • The CEO's justification for the layoffs was the company's financial struggles
  • | The soldier's actions had a strong moral justification
explanation

Use when trying to make something clear or understandable, typically by providing details or context. It emphasizes clarity and understanding.

  • She gave a detailed explanation of the scientific process
  • | His explanation of the rules was very helpful
rationale

Use in a formal or academic context to refer to the fundamental reasons or logical basis for a decision or belief.

  • The rationale behind the new policy is to improve efficiency
  • | She explained the rationale for choosing this method

Examples of usage

  • Let me explain the reasons for my decision.
  • One of the reasons for his success is his hard work.
  • She couldn't understand the reasons behind his sudden departure.
Context #2 | Noun

for belief

A premise of an argument.

Synonyms

basis, ground, premise.

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Word Description / Examples
reasons

Typically used to explain or justify why something happens or why a decision is made.

  • She had valid reasons for quitting her job
  • The reasons behind his actions were unclear
premise

Refers to an initial statement or idea that forms the foundation or basis for an argument or theory. Typically used in logical or philosophical discussions.

  • The premise of his argument is that all men are created equal
  • On the premise that everyone will attend, we will book a larger venue
basis

Often refers to the foundation or underlying principle of something. It is used to describe the starting point or main support for an idea or action.

  • His claim has no basis in fact
  • The basis of their argument is flawed
ground

Usually relates to justification, especially in a legal or formal context. It can also refer to the main reason why something is done.

  • She was dismissed on the grounds of misconduct
  • The decision had no sound grounds

Examples of usage

  • The main reason for his belief in aliens is the numerous sightings reported.
  • One reason for her skepticism is the lack of scientific evidence.
Context #3 | Verb

to think logically

Think, understand, and form judgments logically.

Synonyms

argue, justify, think logically.

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Word Description / Examples
reasons

Use when explaining the motives, causes, or explanations for something.

  • She listed her reasons for wanting to move to a new city.
  • There are many reasons why the project failed.
think logically

Use when emphasizing the process of using reason and systematic thinking to make decisions or solve problems.

  • When solving a math problem, it's important to think logically.
  • She always thinks logically when faced with difficult choices.
argue

Use when presenting arguments or debating a point, often in a confrontational or serious manner.

  • They argue about politics almost every day.
  • She argued that the new policy was unfair.
justify

Use when providing valid reasons or explanations to support or defend an action, decision, or idea.

  • He tried to justify his decision to quit his job.
  • The company had to justify the layoffs to its employees.

Examples of usage

  • He reasoned that the best course of action was to wait.
  • She reasoned that the solution lay in compromise.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophical discussions, reasons are often categorized into different types, like practical or moral, depending on the context.
  • Philosopher Aristotle placed great importance on reasoning as a means to arrive at truth through logical argument.
  • Modern philosophers study 'reasons' to understand how humans justify their beliefs and actions.

Psychology

  • Research in psychology suggests that providing reasons can significantly increase a person's likelihood to comply with requests.
  • The study of cognitive dissonance highlights how people create reasons to justify behaviors that contradict their beliefs.
  • People often seek reasons to make sense of their emotions and experiences, which is a key part of human cognition.

Education

  • In education, teaching students to articulate reasons for their answers enhances critical thinking and reasoning skills.
  • Debate and argumentative writing emphasize the importance of providing clear reasons to support one's stance.
  • Learning to identify reasons improves comprehension skills in reading, helping students understand an author's intent better.

Communication

  • Effective communication relies on presenting reasons clearly to persuade or inform others.
  • In dialogue, offering reasons can help resolve conflicts by clarifying intentions and motivations.
  • Presenting reasons in a structured manner, such as in a convincing argument, is essential in professional settings.

Everyday Life

  • People often list reasons for major life decisions, such as moving to a new city or changing jobs, to clarify their thoughts.
  • When parents explain rules to children, they often provide reasons to help kids understand why those rules matter.
  • Buying something usually involves weighing pros and consโ€”these are often articulated as reasons for a purchase.

Origin of 'reasons'

The word 'reasons' originated from the Old French word 'raison' and the Latin word 'ratio', both meaning 'reckoning' or 'calculation'. The concept of reason has been a fundamental aspect of philosophy and human thought for centuries, exploring the principles of logic, justification, and understanding.


See also: outreason, reason, reasonable, reasonableness, reasonably, reasoned, reasoning, unreasonable, unreasonableness, unreasonably.

Word Frequency Rank

At #856 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.