What is reasonable? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "reasonable" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances.

1. Core Meaning: Sensible, Logical, Fair

At its most basic, "reasonable" means sensible, logical, or fair. It describes something that makes sense, is practical, and doesn't seem overly extreme or illogical.

• Example: "It's reasonable to expect a good night's sleep after a hard workout." (Meaning: It's sensible to expect that.)
• Example: "His decision to sell the house was reasonable given the declining market." (Meaning: It was a logical and understandable decision.)
• Example: "The judge ruled that the sentence was reasonable considering the crime." (Meaning: Fair and appropriate for the situation.)

2. Usage in Different Contexts

Here’s how "reasonable" is used in more specific situations:

• Requests/Demands: You often use "reasonable" to describe a request or demand that is fair and justifiable.

  • "I think your request for a raise is reasonable considering your performance."
  • "It's unreasonable to expect me to work overtime every night." (Contrast – this is not reasonable!)

• Time/Effort: Describing how much time or effort is needed for something.

  • “It’s reasonable to take a week off after working for six months straight.”
  • “Don’t expect me to spend three hours on that project – it’s unreasonable.”

• Cost/Price: Expressing that something is not overpriced or excessively expensive.

  • "The price of the hotel room is reasonable for this area."
  • “That’s a reasonable price for such a complicated repair.”

• Behavior/Actions: Evaluating if someone's behavior is acceptable or justifiable.

  • “He acted reasonably given the stressful situation.” (Meaning: He responded in a sensible way.)
  • “It's unreasonable to get angry over a small mistake.”

• Conditions/Requirements: Checking if conditions or requirements are fair and attainable.

  • “The terms of the contract are reasonable.”
  • “The speed limit is reasonable under these conditions.”

3. Synonyms and Related Words

Knowing synonyms can help you expand your vocabulary and choose the best word for the situation:

• Sensible: (Most direct synonym)
• Logical: (Focuses on the reasoning behind something)
• Fair: (Emphasizes justice and impartiality)
• Prudent: (Suggests wisdom and carefulness)
• Practical: (Highlights usefulness and feasibility)
• Just: (Similar to fair, often referring to legal or moral fairness)

4. Negative Usage: "Unreasonable"

The opposite of "reasonable" is "unreasonable." It describes something that is illogical, unfair, or excessive.

• Example: “His reaction was completely unreasonable.”
• Example: “Asking for a 50% raise is unreasonable.”

Tips for Using "Reasonable" Effectively:

• Consider the Context: Think about why you're using the word. Are you judging a request, an action, or a solution?
• Be Specific: Instead of just saying "it's reasonable," explain why it's reasonable. ("It's reasonable because the cost is in line with industry standards.")
• Contrast with "Unreasonable": Use "unreasonable" to highlight what you're not agreeing with.

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To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

• What is the context you want to use "reasonable" in? (e.g., Are you writing an email, in a conversation, etc.?)
• Is there a specific sentence you're struggling with?