raison d'être

[rey-zohn de-truh, re-zawn de-tr^uh] / ˈreɪ zoʊn ˈdɛ trə, rɛ zɔ̃ ˈdɛ trə /

NOUN

reason for being

Synonyms

WEAK

basis justification for existing rationale reason for existing reason why

raison d'etre

NOUN

reason for being

Synonyms

WEAK

basis justification for existing rationale reason for existing reason why

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

So they feel like it is their signature, their raison d’etre.

From Slate • Mar. 28, 2023

It’s a good question, and one that cuts to the core of the new policy’s raison d’etre.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2023

“We will flourish until our raison d’etre for being people’s lawyers ceases.”

From Seattle Times • Oct. 15, 2022

And while the Echo quickly found its raison d’etre, I think the Astro will take a bit longer.

From The Verge • May 26, 2022

Male saints lost their chief raison d'etre, and these virile creatures were superseded by pacific women.

From Old Calabria by Douglas, Norman