rational

[rash-uh-nl, rash-nl] / ˈræʃ ə nl, ˈræʃ nl /

ADJECTIVE

realistic; of sound mind

Synonyms

STRONGEST

analytical balanced deliberate enlightened impartial intelligent judicious levelheaded logical lucid normal prudent reasonable sane sensible sober stable thoughtful wise

STRONG

calm cool intellectual knowing objective reasoning sound synthetic thinking

WEAK

all there cerebral circumspect cognitive collected deductive discerning discriminating far-sighted perspicacious philosophic ratiocinative reflective sagacious together well-advised

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless confused foolish idiotic illogical insane irrational nonsensical senseless stupid thoughtless unbalanced unintelligent unreasonable unstable unsystematic unwise

STRONG

agitated excited

WEAK

ridiculous unrealistic unsound

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.

And the court continues to conduct itself as though Trump is a rational actor who will hear a no as a no.

From Slate • Jun. 1, 2026

I’d go back to the drawing board on this one and plot out a rational plan for Roth conversions over several years, if that’s what you decide makes the most sense for you.

From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026

Zionism’s founder “was driven to solve the problem of liberal Europe, whose rational foundations antisemitism had threatened,” Ms. Wisse says.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

"These disorders manifest in current symptoms of unending, synergistic, and complex delusions that thwart a rational understanding of his imminent execution," his lawyers argued.

From BBC • May 21, 2026

He thought it was completely rational to tether me to some man before my wicked acts came to light.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

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