Dôvody

Důvody are the reasons or grounds that justify an action, belief, or statement. In Czech, the term refers to rationales, motives, or arguments offered to support a decision or position. Důvody can be personal or collective, practical or normative, and they appear in everyday conversation as well as in formal discourse.

Důvody are not the same as příčiny (causes). Příčiny describe events and processes that bring about a result, often in a physical or causal sense. Důvody focus on justification, motivation, or argumentative warrant. They can be subjective and value-laden, while příčiny are typically objective and explanatory in a causal sense. In practice, people discuss důvody pro (for) and důvody proti (against) a proposal, plan, or action.

Usage and contexts. In law and policy, důvody are the grounds for a decision or ruling. In philosophy and logic, they function as premises or rationales in an argument. In everyday speech, one might ask for or present the důvody for choosing a particular course of action, for supporting a belief, or for changing an opinion.

Related terms. Záminka (excuse) is a related concept but often carries a nuance of insufficient or misleading justification. Důkazy (evidence) complements důvody by providing factual support to bolster or challenge a claim.

Overall, důvody are central to rational discussion and decision-making, structuring how people justify beliefs, policies, and actions within both informal and formal settings.