理屈

りくつ
Alternative writings: 理窟
JLPT:N1
Frequency:
1

Reasoning or theoretical logic; the line of argument or rationale used to explain something.

Noun

Examples

彼の説明には理屈が通っているが、感情面では問題が残る。

His explanation is logically sound, but there are remaining emotional issues.

理屈では分かるが、実際にやるのは難しい。

I understand it in theory, but it's hard to do in practice.

この理屈に基づいて実験を行った。

We conducted the experiment based on this reasoning.

2

An (often strained or unreasonable) argument, excuse, or pretext; a contrived justification that may not be convincing.

Noun

Examples

彼の言い分は理屈に過ぎず、誰も納得しなかった。

His claims were just excuses; nobody was convinced.

理屈をこねて責任を逃れようとしているようだ。

It seems like he's trying to dodge responsibility by making excuses.

そんな理屈は通用しないよ。具体的な証拠を見せてください。

That excuse won't do. Please show concrete evidence.

Word Relationships