noun HSK 4
reason · grounds · justification · excuse
Meaning
理由 refers to a reason, justification, or grounds for doing something or explaining why something happened. It can indicate both legitimate reasons and excuses. The word combines 理 (logic, reason) and 由 (cause, from), literally meaning 'logical cause.'
Usage
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts when explaining motivations or justifications. Often appears in phrases like 有理由 (to have reason to), 没有理由 (to have no reason to), or 什么理由 (what reason). Can imply either genuine reasons or mere excuses depending on context.
Examples
- 01你有什么理由迟到？?What reason do you have for being late?
- 02他没有理由拒绝这个机会。.He has no reason to refuse this opportunity.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个理由
Common collocations
- 有理由to have reason to
- 没有理由to have no reason to
- 充分的理由sufficient reason
- 正当理由legitimate reason
Origin
Formed from 理 (principle, logic) and 由 (cause, origin), creating a compound meaning 'logical cause' or 'reasoned justification.' Both characters have ancient origins in classical Chinese.