Rational vs. Rationale: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 10, 2023
Rational vs. Rationale: "Rational" describes someone or something logical, while "Rationale" is the underlying reason for something.
Key Differences
"Rational" pertains to the use of reasoning or logic. It’s an adjective that describes a person who makes decisions based on logical thought processes, not emotions. For example, a rational individual carefully considers all information before making a decision. "Rationale," however, is a noun that refers to the fundamental reason for something or the basis upon which a decision is made. It’s the justification that underpins a particular action, thought, or system.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
"Rational" behavior or thought is characterized by adherence to logic or reason. When we describe a decision, argument, or person as rational, we are saying that they are based on or in accordance with reason or logic. On the other hand, "rationale" is concerned with explaining why. When people provide a rationale, they are giving the logical basis or justification for their actions or beliefs.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
A "rational" approach or decision is one that is made based on facts, analysis, and reasoning. It's devoid of emotion, speculation, or impulse. Conversely, a "rationale" does not describe an approach but rather supports it. It's the underlying logic that explains why a particular decision was rational, to begin with. It's the because in "I did this because..."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
"Rational" can also imply a state of sanity or clear-mindedness, where one's mental faculties are operating logically. For instance, after a shock, someone might need time to become rational again. "Rationale," however, does not describe a state of mind but is the articulated reasoning or justification behind a specific stance or action, often detailed after the fact.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
"Rational" is an adjective, often used to describe decisions, thoughts, or individuals who operate based on reason rather than emotion. "Rationale," however, is a noun, referring specifically to the set of reasons offered to justify an action, belief, or system. You might question someone’s rationale, seeking the logic behind their decisions, which you hope would be rational.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Emotional Influence
Usually devoid of emotion
Justifies decisions, can be emotional
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
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Rational and Rationale Definitions
Rational
Rational: Relating to, based on, or agreeable to reason.
A rational explanation eased their concerns.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
Rationale
An underlying principle; basis.
The project's rationale was clearly outlined.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
Rational
Rational: Free from emotion; objective.
Despite his worries, he kept a rational perspective.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
Rationale
The fundamental reason or justification.
His rationale for leaving was sound.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
Rational
Rational: Based on clear, logical thinking.
She made a rational decision after considering all facts.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
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Rationale
The thought process leading to conclusions.
The rationale behind the theory intrigued many.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Rationale
Logical reasoning behind decisions.
She explained her rationale calmly.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Rational
Consistent with or based on reason or good judgment; logical or sensible
Rational decisions.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rationale
Explanation or justification of an act.
The document provided the rationale for the changes.
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
Rational
Of sound mind; sane
Wondered if the eccentric neighbor was not completely rational.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rationale
The fundamental reasons for something; the basis
The rationale for dropping the atomic bomb.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rationale
An explanation of the basis or fundamental reasons for something.en
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rationale
A liturgical vestment worn by some Christian bishops of various denominations.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Logically sound; not self-contradictory or otherwise absurd.
His statements were quite rational.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rationale
An explanation or exposition of the principles of some opinion, action, hypothesis, phenomenon, or the like; also, the principles themselves.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
(of a person or personal characteristics) Healthy or balanced intellectually; exhibiting reasonableness.
Rational conduct
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rationale
(law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature);
The rationale for capital punishment
The principles of internal-combustion engines
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Of a number, capable of being expressed as the ratio of two integers.
¾ is a rational number, but √2 is an irrational number.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Of an algebraic expression, capable of being expressed as the ratio of two polynomials.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
(chemistry) Expressing the type, structure, relations, and reactions of a compound; graphic; said of formulae.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
(physics) Expressing a physical object.
A rational table is physical, a written table is neither.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
(mathematics) A rational number: a number that can be expressed as the quotient of two integers.
The quotient of two rationals is again a rational.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Relating to the reason; not physical; mental.
Moral philosophy was his chiefest end; for the rational, the natural, and mathematics . . . were but simple pastimes in comparison of the other.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Having reason, or the faculty of reasoning; endowed with reason or understanding; reasoning.
It is our glory and happiness to have a rational nature.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Agreeable to reason; not absurd, preposterous, extravagant, foolish, fanciful, or the like; wise; judicious; as, rational conduct; a rational man.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Expressing the type, structure, relations, and reactions of a compound; graphic; - said of formulæ. See under Formula.
What higher in her society thou find'stAttractive, human, rational, love still.
A law may be reasonable in itself, although a man does not allow it, or does not know the reason of the lawgivers.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Consistent with or based on or using reason;
Rational behavior
A process of rational inference
Rational thought
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Of or associated with or requiring the use of the mind;
Intellectual problems
The triumph of the rational over the animal side of man
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Capable of being expressed as a quotient of integers;
Rational numbers
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Having its source in or being guided by the intellect (distinguished from experience or emotion);
A rational analysis
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 14, 2023
Rational
Rational: Sane; possessing mental clarity.
He seemed rational despite the crisis.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
FAQs
Does "rational" mean emotionless?
Not necessarily, but it emphasizes logic over emotion.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Can a "rationale" be flawed?
Yes, if the underlying reasoning is faulty or biased.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Can "rationale" include beliefs?
Yes, beliefs can form part of the justification provided.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Can "rationale" be emotional?
It can include emotional reasons, but it's usually logical.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Can "rationale" be predictive?
Yes, if it's outlining reasons for future actions.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Is "rational" subjective?
It can seem so, but it's meant to be based on objective reasoning.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Can "rationale" change?
Yes, especially if new information or perspectives emerge.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Who decides a "rationale's" validity?
It's often subjective, but peers, experts, or outcomes can.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Can a "rational" person be emotional?
Yes, but rational decisions are typically made with logic over emotion.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Does "rationale" require evidence?
Often, yes, to support or justify the reasoning.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Can "rational" decisions be wrong?
Yes, if based on incorrect information or assumptions.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Are "rational" thoughts always conscious?
Generally, as they require deliberate reasoning.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Is being "rational" always practical?
Mostly, but context and emotions can be important, too.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Does "rational" mean intelligent?
Not always, but it does involve logical thinking.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Can "rational" involve intuition?
Typically, it's based more on conscious reasoning.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Is "rationale" necessary for decisions?
Often, as it provides justification and understanding.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Is "rational" always the best approach?
It's highly valued, but emotions and ethics also matter.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Is "rationale" subjective or objective?
It can be either, depending on the context and presenter.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Can "rationale" be retrospective?
Yes, it's often formed after reflecting on actions.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Can animals be "rational"?
Debateable, though some believe they can be to an extent.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
