A1 noun Neutral #223 most common

reason

/ˈriː.zən/

A reason is a cause or explanation for why something happens or why someone does something. It is the information that answers the question 'Why?'.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The reason I am late is because of the heavy traffic.

The explanation for my lateness is the traffic delay.

2

The reason for the policy change was explained in the meeting.

The explanation for the new rules was given in the meeting.

3

I don't need a reason to buy you a gift.

I do not need a specific cause to buy you a present.

Word Family

Noun
reason
Verb
reason
Adverb
reasonably
Adjective
reasonable
Related
reasoning
💡

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'REAL'—a Reason explains the Real cause of something.

Quick Quiz

Give me one good ____ why I should help you.

Correct!

The correct answer is: reason

Examples

1

The reason I am late is because of the heavy traffic.

everyday

The explanation for my lateness is the traffic delay.

2

The reason for the policy change was explained in the meeting.

formal

The explanation for the new rules was given in the meeting.

3

I don't need a reason to buy you a gift.

informal

I do not need a specific cause to buy you a present.

4

Scientists are trying to find the primary reason for the data shift.

academic

Researchers are investigating the main cause of the change in data.

5

Please provide a valid reason for your absence from work.

business

Please give a professional explanation for why you were not at work.

Word Family

Noun
reason
Verb
reason
Adverb
reasonably
Adjective
reasonable
Related
reasoning

Common Collocations

give a reason to provide an explanation
main reason the most important cause
for some reason for an unknown cause
good reason a valid or justifiable cause
the reason why the cause for which something happens

Common Phrases

for no reason

without any cause or explanation

within reason

within sensible or logical limits

reason with someone

to try to persuade someone using logic

Often Confused With

reason vs cause

A 'cause' is the direct source of an action; a 'reason' is often the motivation or explanation behind it.

reason vs excuse

An 'excuse' is a reason given specifically to lessen blame or avoid a duty.

📝

Usage Notes

The word 'reason' is frequently followed by the prepositions 'for' (reason for something) or 'why' (reason why something happened).

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Avoid saying 'the reason is because'; it is more grammatically correct to say 'the reason is that'.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'REAL'—a Reason explains the Real cause of something.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Old French 'raison', coming from the Latin 'ratio', which refers to a calculation or motive.

Grammar Patterns

Countable noun: reason (singular), reasons (plural) Pattern: reason for + [noun/gerund] Pattern: reason (why) + [clause]

Quick Quiz

Give me one good ____ why I should help you.

Correct!

The correct answer is: reason

Related Words

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To systematically destroy or neutralize multiple core centers of operation, power, or biological activity within a single system. This term is often used in specialized strategic or scientific contexts to describe a targeted attack on all vital hubs simultaneously to ensure total system collapse.

enspecty

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To examine a subject, document, or object with extreme precision and exhaustive detail, often to ensure it meets rigorous quality standards. It implies a more intrusive and systematic level of investigation than a standard inspection, typically performed by a specialist or auditor.

multiaudate

C1

To simultaneously monitor, listen to, or process multiple streams of audio information or diverse vocal perspectives. It is typically used in technical or academic contexts to describe the high-level cognitive act of filtering and analyzing concurrent auditory inputs.

homohydrward

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Describing a biological or chemical movement or tendency toward maintaining internal fluid consistency or moving toward a moisture source with identical properties. It refers to a directional state where the primary driver is the achievement of uniform hydration equilibrium.

antilaterary

C1

A noun referring to a position, point, or entity located on the exact opposite side of a central axis, midline, or reference point. It is used in specialized logic and spatial reasoning contexts to describe counter-positioning or mirror-image placement.

mishospcy

C1

Describes a quality of being ungracious or providing poor hospitality, specifically characterized by a lack of genuine warmth or a failed attempt at being welcoming. It is used to label environments or behaviors that feel cold, awkward, or subtly hostile despite an expectation of care.

ungeoary

C1

Describes something that lacks geographical characteristics or is independent of physical location and spatial terrain. It is often used in abstract or digital contexts where physical boundaries and coordinates are irrelevant.

dearchism

C1

A structural or philosophical approach characterized by the rejection of hierarchy, centralized authority, or a singular dominant 'arch' (rule). It advocates for decentralized, horizontal organization where power and focus are distributed evenly across a system.

coclauddom

C1

The state or condition of being collectively shut away or secluded in a shared environment. It refers to a group or community that exists within a self-contained, closed space, often by choice or social necessity.

synprivward

C1

A synprivward is a specialized protocol or linguistic barrier used to safeguard sensitive information during collaborative data exchanges. It acts as a protective layer that synchronizes privacy standards across different entities to prevent unauthorized access while maintaining group workflow.

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