Reason: causes and explanations

The idea

Use a reason for one and reasons for several. Say the reason for the delay or a reason for choosing this option.

Examples

• What is the reason for the delay?
• She explained her reasons.
• We have two reasons for waiting.
• One reason is the cost.
• He gave a reason for choosing this option.
• The report describes the reasons for the decision.

Watch out

Use reason for before a noun or -ing phrase in these patterns; reason why can introduce a clause.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the plural after two. We have two ___ for waiting. (reason / reasons)

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   reasons

   Reasons is plural after two.

2. Choose the preposition before the delay. What is the reason ___ the delay? (for / at)

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   for

   For introduces the delay being explained.

3. Choose the -ing form after for. He gave a reason for ___ this option. (choosing / choose)

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   choosing

   Choosing is an -ing form after for.

Use it today

Give two reasons for a decision and explain one of them.