Synonyms of rationale

rationale

noun

ˌra-shə-ˈnal 

as in explanation

a statement given to explain a belief or act

the rationale for starting the school day an hour later is that kids will supposedly get an extra hour of sleep

Synonyms & Similar Words

• explanation
• reason
• argument
• justification
• accounting
• apology
• case
• excuse
• account
• defense
• appeal
• rationalization
• plea
• vindication
• alibi
• pretext
• apologia
• pretense
• guise

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of rationale

Failure to report use of force Green explained her rationale in the personnel board’s order, giving a glimpse into what the video footage showed. — Corey Schmidt, Sacbee.com, 29 July 2026

However, Republicans are using a rationale that is certain to be scrutinized by lawyers. — Joey Garrison, USA Today, 29 July 2026

Courts have upheld previous tariffs under this law, and because they are established after an investigative report, there is actual detailed rationale behind the tariff choices. — Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

The entire rationale for combining CBS and Viacom into Paramount was to use CBS to protect the Viacom cable networks and ‘bend the curve’ on their decline. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 28 July 2026

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!