道理に適う

• Reading: どうりにかなう
• Romaji: douri ni kanau
• Kanji breakdown: 道 (dou/michi) — way, path; 理 (ri) — reason, logic; 適 (kana/teki) — to suit, fit
• Pronunciation: /do̞ː.ɾi.ni.ka.na.ɯ/

Meaning

To stand to reason; to be logical or reasonable. Used when something makes sense or is consistent with common sense.

A compound expression combining 道理 (reason/logic) with 適う (to suit/match). Group 1 (godan) conjugation via 適う. Often appears in formal or written contexts when evaluating whether an argument or decision is rational.

Examples

1. その説明は道理に適っていて、みんな納得した。 That explanation stood to reason, and everyone was convinced.
2. 道理に適わないルールには従う必要がない。 There's no need to follow rules that don't make sense.
3. 彼の主張は道理に適っているから、反論しにくい。 His argument is logical, so it's hard to counter.

Usage Guide

Context: debate, academic, legal

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

Classical compound from 道理 (the way of reason, from Buddhist and Confucian philosophy) and 適う (to be suited to). Reflects the value placed on logical consistency in Japanese discourse.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated