understand reason; obvious principle
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesverb
to understand reason; to be reasonable
formalUsed to describe a person who is sensible, reasonable, or has a good grasp of principles.
He studies to understand reason, not just for exams.
She is a reasonable person and won't make unreasonable demands.
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Communicating with a reasonable person often makes things go smoothly.
All parents hope their children will be sensible and understanding.
noun
obvious principle; clear reasoning
informalOften used as a noun phrase "mínglǐ" (明理儿) in colloquial speech to refer to a self-evident truth or logic that doesn't require lengthy explanation.
This is an obvious principle; there's no need to explain it in detail as everyone understands.
Paying back a debt is an obvious, indisputable principle.
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When you explain this kind of obvious logic to him, he actually refuses to listen.