Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈræʃəˌnæl/
KK: /ræʃəˌnæl/
Definition
A set of reasons or explanations for something, often used to justify a decision or action.
Example
The rationale behind the new policy was explained in the meeting.
Conversation

I was thinking about the rationale behind our project choices.

That's a good point! It's important to understand why we picked those options.

Exactly! I believe the rationale will help us justify our decisions later.

For sure, it will make our presentation much stronger.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
justification
explanation
reasoning
Antonyms
irrationality
absurdity
nonsense
Root Explanation
**Rationale** → It is formed from "ratio" (from Latin, meaning reason or calculation) and "-nale" (a suffix used to form nouns). The word "rationale" refers to the underlying reason or explanation for something.
Memory Tip
Think of 'ratio' as the 'reason' behind something — that's why 'rationale' means the reasoning or explanation for a decision.
Visually Confused Words
orational
irrationable
unrational
tractional
rotational
relational
reactional
irrational