Words / C1

RASH-uh-nl/ˈræʃənl/

Rational means based on reason and evidence rather than feeling or habit: a rational plan, a rational sampling frame. Reasonable (already in the dictionary) is milder and often means “fair enough”; irrational sits opposite. A vibe of fairness is not a methods choice.

Meaning

Based on reason and evidence rather than emotion or habit.

Examples

• “A rational sampling frame names the night cohort in the n; a vibe of fairness does not.”
• “Logical is the close twin. Reasonable is already in this course and softer. Emotion is colour. A frame with a named slice is methods. Write the slice; keep the vibe for the interview.”

Good to know

Reasoned; based on evidence. Milder: reasonable (already in the dictionary). A vibe ≠ a sampling frame.

Near in meaning

logical

New