The reason why vs the reason that

Both 'the reason why' and 'the reason that' are commonly used phrases in English. They are often interchangeable, but 'the reason why' is more informal and conversational, while 'the reason that' is considered more formal. The choice between them depends on the context and the level of formality desired.

Last updated: February 23, 2025 • 988 views

The reason why

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially in informal contexts.

This phrase is used to introduce an explanation or justification for something. It is often used in spoken language and informal writing.

Examples:

Can you tell me the reason why you were late?
I don't understand the reason why she left so suddenly.
The reason why I didn't come yesterday was that I was feeling unwell.
Do you know the reason why he is upset?
Could you explain the reason why you made that decision?

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 reason that
the reason for which
the reason behind
the reason is that
the reason being

the reason that

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially in formal contexts.

This phrase is used to introduce an explanation or justification for something. It is often used in formal writing and speech.

Examples:

The reason that I called you is to discuss the project.
I understand the reason that you are concerned.
He explained the reason that he couldn't attend the meeting.
The reason that she gave for her absence was a family emergency.
Can you clarify the reason that you made that statement?

Show examples from the web [+]

I'm the reason that Susan Mailer is dead.
I know she's the reason that Mom got shot.
They are the reason that fight.
And the reason that they have changed is because we now have new information.
Men like you are the reason that I'm leaving this town.
You know what, the reason that I breast-fed two and half years protect our children.
Listen, the reason that I called is...
You are the reason that I wished her dead.
He is the reason that Sookie's in danger.
My father is the reason that you vivo.
Um,'s not the reason that I resigned.
That was the reason that I valued my daughter.
He thinks I'm the reason that you stayed.
Sin is the reason that our Savior
Look, the reason that I'm here Is there was an accident.
Caroline, she's the reason that I left.
So a lack of funding is not the reason that investment remains weak.
Because... she was the reason that most of us worked here.
And the reason that you have her memories is because she possessed you.
This is the reason that brings us here today.

Alternatives:

the reason why
the reason for which
the reason behind
the reason is that
the reason being

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The reason why vs the reason that

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