rational
word
Definition
Thinking or acting based on reason and logic, rather than emotions or feelings. It can also describe something that makes sense or is reasonable.
Usage & Nuances
Used in formal, academic, and everyday contexts. Common collocations: 'rational decision', 'rational mind', 'rational explanation'. Not the same as 'reasonable' (which is more about fairness), and often compared with 'emotional'.
Example Sentences
Is there a rational explanation for this problem?
basic
Try to stay rational even when you’re upset.
natural
He thinks he’s always being rational, but sometimes his emotions get in the way.
natural
Being rational doesn’t mean you ignore your feelings—it just means you don’t let them control you.
natural
She made a rational decision after thinking carefully.
basic
It's important to be rational in stressful situations.
basic