Langimage
English

reason

|rea-son|

B1

/ˈriːzən/

logical cause

Etymology
Etymology Information

'reason' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'rationem,' where 'ratio' meant 'reckoning, understanding.'

Historical Evolution

'rationem' transformed into the Old French word 'raison,' and eventually became the modern English word 'reason' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'reckoning or understanding,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'cause or justification.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a cause, explanation, or justification for an action or event.

The reason for the delay was the heavy traffic.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to think, understand, and form judgments by a process of logic.

She reasoned that it was too late to start the journey.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35