Rational vs. rationale: what's the difference?
Though they look similar, rational and rationale have distinct meanings and uses in English. Understanding the difference is crucial for clear communication.
- Rational (adjective) — Based on or in accordance with reason or logic. Used to describe someone or something as logical or sensible.
- Rationale (noun) — A set of reasons or a logical basis for a course of action or a particular belief. An abstract noun that points to the "why" behind something.
Definitions and usage
Rational (adjective)
Based on or in accordance with reason or logic. Used to describe someone or something as logical or sensible.
• The committee made a rational decision after considering all perspectives.
• The scientist used rational analysis to explain the observed phenomena in the experiment.
• In a rational society, decisions are made based on evidence and logical reasoning rather than superstition.
Rationale (noun)
A set of reasons or a logical basis for a course of action or a particular belief. An abstract noun that points to the "why" behind something.
• The rationale behind the new policy is to improve employee productivity and work-life balance.
• The school board explained the rationale for implementing a dress code to promote a more focused learning environment.
• The government outlined the rationale for the tax reform, emphasizing its benefits for economic growth.
Pro tip! Remember that rational (adjective) ends in -al, just like logic-al (also an adjective). A rationale (noun) is the "why" or reasoning behind something—think of it as the "reason-able" explanation.
Word forms
Rational:
• rational — adjective
• rationally — adverb
• rationality — noun
• rationalize — verb
Rationale:
• rationale — noun (no other word forms)
Synonyms & nearby words
Synonyms for rational
Synonyms for rationale
Word origins
Rational: Late 14c., racional, "pertaining to or springing from reason;" mid-15c., of persons, "endowed with reason, having the power of reasoning," from Old French racionel and directly from Latin rationalis "of or belonging to reason, reasonable."
Rationale: 1650s, "exposition of principles," from Late Latin rationale, noun use of neuter of Latin rationalis "of reason."
Practice quiz: Rational vs. Rationale
Her decision was very ______ and well thought out.
Can you explain the ______ behind this policy?
He gave a ______ argument during the debate.
The ______ for the new rule was explained clearly.
It is ______ to save money for emergencies.
FAQs
What is the difference between rational and rationale?
When should I use the word rational?
When should I use the word rationale?
What are common usage errors for these words?
Are rational and rationale pronounced the same?
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