Look-alike words
Rational vs. Rationale
Rational is an adjective meaning sensible or based on clear thinking. Rationale is a noun meaning the reasons behind a decision or plan. A rational person can explain the rationale for a choice.
| Word | Part of speech | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| rational | adjective | based on reason and facts rather than feelings; able to think clearly |
| rationale | noun | the set of reasons or the logic behind a decision, belief or action |
Rational
adjective: based on reason and facts rather than feelings; able to think clearly
- Try to make a rational decision, not one based on panic.
- After a good night's sleep, Ben felt more rational about the argument.
Rationale
noun: the set of reasons or the logic behind a decision, belief or action
- The teacher explained the rationale for the new seating chart.
- What was the rationale behind closing the pool in July?
How to remember the difference
Rationale ends with an extra E, for explanation: it is the explanation behind a choice. Rational, without the E, just means reasonable.
Good to know
They also sound different. Rational is said RASH-uh-nul. Rationale ends with a stressed short A, rash-uh-NAL, so it rhymes with pal.
Spot the mistake
The manager never explained the
rationalrationale for the pay cut.Correct: The manager never explained the rationale for the pay cut.
Stay calm and try to be
rationalerational about the budget.Correct: Stay calm and try to be rational about the budget.
Check yourself
Pick the word that fits each sentence.
1. It is not to drive four hours just to save five dollars.
Answer: rational. The word describes a sensible choice, so it is the adjective rational.
2. The report gives a clear for raising bus fares.
Answer: rationale. The word names the reasons behind a plan, so it is the noun rationale.