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

Still, pointing at newly rising roster-compensation costs will serve as the rationale as to why this is happening now. — Jason Kirk, New York Times, 31 July 2026

Cameron lobbied to pitch the ninth inning but understood his manager’s rationale. — Kansas City Star, 30 July 2026

In the end, flexible architecture for the people could only come to fruition by undercutting its own populist rationale. — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 29 July 2026

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

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!