rationally
UK[ˈræʃnəli]US[ˈræʃnəli]
adv
in a way that is based on reason, logic, or clear thought, rather than emotions
adv
in a way that shows the ability to think and make sensible decisions
Morpheme Breakdown
ration
al
ly
ration
reason
al
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
the word 'rationally' is built upon the core latin noun ratio, which originally meant a reckoning, account, or calculation. this concrete sense of mathematical or logical procedure evolved to signify the faculty of reason itself. the adjective-forming suffix -al was added to create 'rational', meaning possessing or exercising reason. finally, the old english adverbial suffix -ly was appended, transforming it into 'rationally', which describes an action performed in a logical, reasoned manner. thus, the word's journey encapsulates the progression from the tangible act of counting to the abstract concept of logical thought and behavior.
Analysis
Structure: ration (reason) + al (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
- ration: from latin ratio (reckoning, reason, calculation)
- al: from latin -alis (adjective-forming suffix)
- ly: from old english -lice (adverb-forming suffix)
Examples
she argued her point calmly and rationally.
we need to approach this problem rationally, not emotionally.
he couldn't rationally explain the decision he had made in the heat of the moment.