B2adjectivepsychologyphilosophy
US/ˈræʃ.ən.əl/
UK/ˈræʃ.ən.əl/
based on clear thinking and reasons, not on feelings
In context
Try to make a rational decision instead of buying a phone because it looks cool.
There must be a rational explanation for the strange noise upstairs.
When people are angry, they don't always behave in a rational way.
Words that go with rational
adjective + noun
- rational decisionInvestors should make a rational decision, not follow the crowd.
- rational explanationScientists looked for a rational explanation for the lights.
- rational choiceTaking the bus was the rational choice in that traffic.
- rational thinkingGood teachers encourage rational thinking.
adverb + adjective
- perfectly rationalHer fear of flying is perfectly rational after the accident.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
/ˈreɪ.ʃən.əl/Correct: /ˈræʃ.ən.əl/