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Grammar fix

valid reason

good excuse

A fair or acceptable explanation for something, especially for not doing something or for a mistake.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • She had a valid reason for missing the meeting—her son was sick.daily life
  • In my opinion, students should only be allowed to submit assignments late if they have a valid reason, such as illness or a family emergency.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: valid reason (for something/for doing something)

WrongShe had a valid reason of leaving.

RightShe had a valid reason for leaving.

A reason FOR something, not 'of'.

Patternvalid reason (for something/for doing something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff He provided a legitimate justification for his absence.

Natural He had a valid reason for being away.

Natural; 'legitimate justification' is formal/legal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • a valid reason for
    forperfectlywithout agive

Don't confuse it

Compare with 'weak excuse,' which means a reason that is not convincing.

Try it in Daily Speak →