Noun / Verb A2 — Elementary /ˈriːzən/

Reason — Definition, Examples & Pronunciation

A cause or explanation for something — the word that connects actions to their justifications.

Quick Definition

A reason (noun) is a cause, explanation, or justification for an action or situation. To reason (verb) means to think logically, or to try to persuade someone using logical arguments.

What Does Reason Mean?

Reason comes from Old French raison and Latin ratio (reckoning, calculation, motive). In English, it covers both the meaning of a cause or explanation and the ability to think logically.

Key patterns: the reason for something, the reason why/that, give a reason, for this reason, without reason. Avoid the redundant phrase "the reason is because" — use "the reason is that" instead.

Compare with cause (more objective, automatic) and purpose (forward-looking aim). Reason often explains human decisions and motivations, whereas cause explains physical or impersonal events.

Word in Use

SentenceUsage note
The reason for the delay is bad weather.reason for + noun
I don't know the reason why she left so early.reason why + clause
He reasoned that taking the shorter route would save time.to reason = think logically

Common Mistakes

Watch Out For

The reason is because she was tired.

The reason is that she was tired. (reason is because = redundant)

What is the reason of the problem?

What is the reason for the problem? (reason for, not reason of)

Related Words

result cause question explanation motive rationale

Practise This Word

Flash Cards Wordsearch Quiz

Frequently Asked Questions about “reason”

What does reason mean?
A reason is the cause or explanation for something: 'The reason she was late was the traffic.' It can also mean logical thinking: 'Listen to reason.' As a verb, to reason means to think logically or to argue/persuade: 'He reasoned that the plan would work.'
What is the difference between reason and cause?
Cause suggests something that directly produces an effect — more automatic or physical: 'The cause of the fire was a faulty wire.' Reason suggests a motive, explanation, or justification given by a person: 'Her reason for leaving was personal.' Cause is more neutral and scientific; reason often implies human agency or intention.
How do you use reason in a sentence?
Common patterns: 'the reason for something', 'the reason why/that', 'give a reason', 'for this reason', 'there is no reason to'. Avoid 'the reason is because' — it is redundant. Use 'the reason is that': 'The reason I am late is that the train was delayed.'
What is the CEFR level of reason?
Reason is an A2 (Elementary) word. It becomes important as soon as learners start giving explanations and justifications in English. At A2 and above, you need reason to connect ideas and provide explanations in writing and speaking tasks.
What are synonyms for reason?
As a noun: cause, explanation, justification, motive, rationale, ground, basis, purpose. As a verb: think, argue, deduce, conclude, rationalise. 'Justification' and 'rationale' are more formal; 'motive' implies intent; 'cause' is more scientific. Choose based on formality and meaning.
How do you pronounce reason?
Reason is pronounced /ˈriːzən/. The first syllable has a long 'ee' sound (like 'see'), and the second syllable is a weak schwa: REE-zən. It is two syllables, not three. A common mistake is to add a vowel: 'ree-za-son' — keep it to two syllables.
Can reason be used as a verb?
Yes. To reason means to think in a logical way: 'She reasoned through the problem carefully.' To reason with someone means to try to persuade them using logic: 'You cannot reason with someone who refuses to listen.' The phrase 'it stands to reason' means 'it is logical/obvious'.
What does for no reason mean?
'For no reason' means without any explanation or cause: 'He started laughing for no reason.' A similar phrase is 'for some reason' (= I don't fully understand why): 'For some reason, the file won't open.' Both are very common in everyday spoken English.
What is the difference between reason and purpose?
Reason often looks backward — explaining why something happened: 'The reason for the delay was bad weather.' Purpose looks forward — explaining the aim or intention: 'The purpose of the exercise is to build vocabulary.' Purpose implies a goal; reason implies a cause or explanation.
How can I practise the word reason on LexFizz?
LexFizz's Flash Cards include reason and related discourse markers (because, therefore, as a result) that help you give explanations in English. The Vocabulary Quiz tests reason in context, and the Blog covers how to use reason, cause, and purpose correctly in writing tasks — a key skill for B1+ exams.