Guide 99 / 200 5 swaps Formal register
Professional words for “reason”
Five words that name the kind of reason.
i · When it mattersTwo lines, no filler
"Reason" is serviceable but generic. "Rationale" is the logic behind a decision; "basis" is the foundation; "grounds" is formal (often legal); "motive" names the human driver; "justification" defends the choice.
ii · The swaps5 ways
- 01Rationale formal
logic behind a decision
The rationale for the restructure.
- 02Basis neutral
foundation or starting point
On the basis of the draft report.
- 03Grounds formal
legal or formal reasoning
Grounds for dismissal are documented.
- 04Motive neutral
human driver, often suspect
The motive for the sudden filing is unclear.
- 05Justification formal
argument defending the choice
The justification is recorded in the minutes.