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irrational

/ɪˈɹæʃ.(ə.)nəl/

When used to describe a person's behavior, "irrational" often carries a negative tone, suggesting that someone is acting without thinking clearly or is being stubborn. In a mathematical context, the word is a technical term. It does not mean the number is 'crazy,' but simply refers to its specific numerical property.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is stressing out in the university library.
Chloe Smith

I'm spiraling. My fear of failing this exam is totally irrational.

Chloe Smith
Eleanor Smith
Eleanor Smith

JUST TAKE A BREATHER DEAR. YOU ALWAYS ACE EVERYTHING.

💡
Chloe uses 'spiraling' (slang for losing emotional control) and describes her anxiety as 'irrational' because it isn't based on her actual academic performance. Eleanor responds in all caps due to her technological illiteracy, using the phrasal verb 'take a breather' to suggest a short break.

Meanings

adjective

Not logical or reasonable; based on emotion rather than reason.

"It is irrational to fear spiders if you have never been bitten by one."

adjective

In mathematics, a number that cannot be expressed as a ratio of two integers; having a non-repeating, infinite decimal expansion.

"The square root of 2 is an irrational number."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error