the reason vs The reason why

Both "the reason" and "the reason why" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "The reason" is more concise and direct, often used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce an explanation. On the other hand, "the reason why" is a more formal and complete phrase that is used when providing a more detailed explanation.

Last updated: February 23, 2025 • 1083 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"the reason"

This phrase is often used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce an explanation in a concise and direct manner.

Examples:

The reason for his absence was a family emergency.
I can't understand the reason for her sudden change in behavior.

Show examples from the web [+]

The Frankenstein murders were the reason Sir Robert hired me.
Look, the reason I left...
Is the reason for invading Sicily.
He was the reason I kept boxing...
That's the reason they let me out.
That's the reason this whole thing happened.
No-doubtedly the reason he butchered her.
Thus the reason I need your services.
Those two women are the reason audiences watch.
And the reason someone killed Malencon.
Whatever the reason, the natives are restless.
You are the reason civilization is declining.
I'm the reason you went along with them.
Am I the reason people always leave?
She's the reason this level's unwinnable.
And now the reason we're all here today...
The Pegasus is the reason I'm here.
To understand the reason of these hunters who enter. only in instant.
People still say on that night he was the reason I survived.
It's the reason 39% of working-class males buy this paper.

Alternatives:

the cause
the explanation
the rationale
the purpose
the motive

This phrase is correct but slightly more formal and complete than just "the reason."

"The reason why"

This phrase is used when providing a more detailed explanation, often in a formal context.

Examples:

Can you explain the reason why you made that decision?
I understand the reason why you are upset.

Show examples from the web [+]
Last updated: November 23, 2024

Aug 6, 2021 ... "The reason why" is no different than "the reason that" ("that" is also a conjunction here), and no one considers the latter to be redundant.
Mar 17, 2024 ... “The reason why you want to be better is the reason why you aren't.” — Alan Watts.
Mar 2, 2021 ... The reason why Find Tool or Ctrl-F do not work ... Does anybody know why either Find Tool or Ctrl-F command would not work on my Alteryx Designed ...

Alternatives:

the cause of
the explanation for
the rationale behind
the purpose for
the motive behind

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the reason vs The reason why

"the reason"

"The reason why"

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