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Definition of rationale : An explanation or exposition of the principles of some opinion, action, hypothesis, phenomenon, or the like; also, the principles themselves.

Synonyms:

rationalness, sense, precept, basis, logic, rule, rationality, principle, grounds, explain, motive, explanation, rationalization, account

pretext, reason, affirmation, claim, plea, alibi, pretense, loop-hole, excuse, smoke screen, justification, stratagem, white lie, red herring

Usage examples:

• Manifestly, then, a rationale of the special changes which a germ undergoes, must be sought in the particular relations which its several parts bear to each other and to their environment. - "Essays: Scientific, Political, & Speculative, Vol. I", Herbert Spencer.
• Had this been done, los barbaros might soon have stood on a level with the gente rationale. - "A New Voyage Round the World, in the years 1823, 24, 25, and 26, Vol. 2", Otto von Kotzebue.
• Old family friends on the bride's side should also receive invitations- the rationale or original intention of this wedding assemblage being to give publicity to the fact that the bride is leaving her paternal home with the consent and approbation of her parents. - "Routledge's Manual of Etiquette", George Routledge.