Definitions

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.

The idea that valuing this in a rational way for tax purposes is somehow too hard is an insult to our intelligence.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 5, 2026

According to China's Cyberspace Administration, the campaign's goal was to address negativity and "create a more civilised and rational online environment".

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

“Not only have all suppliers been more rational in capacity additions, the industry also has never seen a similar demand environment.”

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

Neoclassical economic theory assumes how this rational individual behaves in response to prices and incentives, and this forms a basis to model the economy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

I am trying my best to be rational, but I sometimes have doubts that I am doing a good job at it.

From "A Rover's Story" by Jasmine Warga

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