rational

Based on careful thought and good reasons.

• That seems like a rational choice.
• We need a rational explanation for these changes.
• Her decision was rational and supported by evidence.

Similar words: reasonable, logical, sensible

Opposites: irrational

Common phrases: rational decision, rational explanation, rational choice, rational argument

Able to think clearly and calmly without letting strong feelings control you.

• Try to stay rational.
• She remained rational despite the angry comments.
• Can we have a rational discussion about this?

Similar words: level-headed, calm, reasonable

Opposites: irrational, emotional

Common phrases: remain rational, rational person, stay rational

Able to think sensibly and understand what is happening.

• He still has a rational mind.
• Her conduct was rational throughout the difficult week.
• The doctor checked whether he was rational and alert.

Similar words: sane, reasonable, sensible

Opposites: irrational

Common phrases: rational mind, rational behavior, rational conduct

A number that can be written as one whole number divided by another.

• One half is a rational.
• Adding two rationals gives another rational.
• Can this number be expressed as a rational?

Similar words: rational number

Common phrases: positive rational, nonzero rational, every rational