Have reason v.s. have a reason

Question

Hi,I've heard of those two expressions and I can't quite put my finger on the difference, could you help me distinguish them, please?My best quess is that:I have reason to shirk school (there's no definite reason, I can't come up with the exact reason for my revultion towards school)I have a reason to shirk school (there's a definite reason, such as I don't like my math teacher)Thanks !

Philip · Accepted Answer

I think you're close, Mr. P. [have reason might also imply that the speaker just doesn't want to reveal the reason. This could also be expressed, "well, I have my reasons".]

CalifJim · Answer

Yes. If you have a definite reason, you're more likely to use "have a reason". In this sense the meaning of "reason" touches on "excuse".

If I had young children, I would have a reason to leave work early sometimes. [The children would be the reason.]
Now that my girlfriend doesn't live in Texas, I don't have a reason to go there anymore. [My girlfriend is the reason.]
When Jerry graduated, the family was happy to have a reason to get together and celebrate. [The graduation was the reason.]
____

Otherwise, by saying "have reason", you are only mentioning some general kind of justification. You are saying "It is not irrational to ...".

The Chinese have reason to feel pride. (It is justifiable that they should feel pride. Perhaps they have recently accomplished a great project.)
The police have reason to be interested in Mr. Speiderlink. (It is justifiable that they investigate him. Perhaps he has been acting suspiciously.)
The employees have reason to fear the boss. (It is justifiable that they fear him. Perhaps he acts erratically or is often drunk.)

CJ

Have reason v.s. have a reason

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