adjective
irrational
ih-RASH-uh-nuhl/ɪˈræʃənl/
Not based on reason or sound judgment.
His irrational choice avoids the sturdy bridge in favor of a muddy detour.
Etymology
The pieces mean not belonging to reason. Initially describing beings thought to lack the power of reasoning, irrational came to describe ideas or conduct that fail to follow reason.
In context
irrational decisions, not like falling in love or bungee jumping off a cliff, but logical fallacies that can easily be proven wrong.
More examples
- The fear was irrational but persistent.
- She challenged the irrational conclusion.
- Their spending became increasingly irrational.
Forms
irrational
Similar words
- unreasonable
- Unreasonable can concern unfair demands as well as faulty reasoning.
- illogical
- Illogical specifically concerns faulty reasoning rather than emotional unreasonableness.