rationality
The quality of being based on reason and logic rather than emotion or impulse
Examples
In a meeting
“Let's approach this with rationality rather than reacting to the initial panic.”
Over coffee
“There's no rationality in buying a car you can't afford just because it looks cool.”
Why this word
reason
rationality refers to the quality or state of being logical and reasonable, while reason is the faculty or a specific justification
logic
rationality encompasses sound judgment and coherent thinking overall, while logic specifically refers to formal principles of reasoning
sense
rationality implies systematic logical thinking, while sense is vaguer about practical judgment or meaning
Usage tip
Use to emphasize logical thinking over emotional reactions; contrasts with impulsiveness
Etymology
Latin: rationalis (endowed with reason), from ratio (reason)
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
synthesis
The combining of separate elements to form a coherent whole
syllogism
A logical argument with two premises leading to a conclusion
empiricism
The belief that knowledge comes from observation and experience
paradox
A seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true
premise
An underlying assumption on which reasoning is based
dogma
A principle or belief accepted without question