Master confusing words with ease
Rational vs. Rationale
Rational
/ˈræʃənəl/Examples:
He knows he is wrong, and has nothing rational to urge.Or else turn it into something rational, or even useful?It seemed hardly rational to be thankful for such a life.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Rationale
/ˌræʃəˈnɑːl/Examples:
The rationale behind the rule remained unclear.She explained the rationale for her decision calmly.His rationale for the changes convinced the board.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- Rational is an adjective, whereas rationale is a noun.
- Remember that rational deals with being logical or reasonable, as in rational thinking or behavior.
- Rationale is the reason or explanation, like in the rationale behind a decision.
- If you can replace the word with reasonable, use rational.
- If you find yourself explaining reasons why, you likely need rationale.
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