# rationale

/ˌɹæʃəˈnæɫ/ (US) · /ɹˌæʃənˈæl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rationale
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. logical basis

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

the reasons why someone decides to do something or why something exists.

For teachers: the underlying reason or set of reasons that forms the logical basis for an action or belief.

- The rationale for the new law was to improve safety on the roads.
- The CEO provided a detailed rationale for the merger, citing long-term market stability and the potential for technological synergy.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'for' or 'behind'.

### 2. religious vestment

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Technical

a special piece of clothing worn by some high-ranking church leaders during ceremonies.

For teachers: a liturgical vestment worn by certain Christian bishops, primarily in specific historical or high-church traditions.

- The ancient rationale was decorated with gold and precious stones.
- The museum's collection includes a rare medieval rationale, illustrating the intricate embroidery typical of fourteenth-century liturgical attire.

Usage: Used as a countable noun in ecclesiastical contexts.

## Examples

- What is the rationale for this new rule?
- The committee published the rationale for their budget cuts to explain the difficult choices to the public.
- The judge's ruling was praised for its clear rationale, which linked the legal precedent directly to the specific circumstances of the case.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.