Use of a 2 word phrase

Question

when is the correct time to use "reason why" and why do you not use it?

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

when is the correct time to use "reason why"

'Reason why' is very, very commonly said.

eg The heavy traffic is the reason why he is late.

eg He is late. I don't know the reason why.

eg Is there any reason why he is late?

and why do you not use it? I do use it, a lot. In my experience, it is very, very common, as I said above.

Those who object to it argue that the 'why' is redundant and unnecessary.

But I think perhaps people use it to add emphasis.

However, have you heard someone say this?

eg The reason why he is late is because of the traffic.

Nobody seriously argues that this is acceptable.

Clive

Clive

Use of a 2 word phrase

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