It is the reason why I tell you the secret

[trueheart_205]

Is it wrong when I say: 'It is the reason why I tell you the secret'?
Is it redundant to use 'why ' after 'reason' ?
then, 'It is the reason I tell you the secret'
which is better? (as well as 'the place where...', 'the time when...')
Thanks!

[tzfujimino]

Hi, trueheart.
You've made a good point. I'm interested.
Let's wait for native speakers to reply.

[charliedeut]

Is it wrong when I say: 'It is the reason why I tell you the secret'?
Is it redundant to use 'why ' after 'reason' ?
then, 'It is the reason I tell you the secret'
which is better? (as well as 'the place where...', 'the time when...')
Thanks!

Hi,

IMO, it's correct. Only, as a personal choice, I would say "This/that is the reason why".

Using "why" after "reason" sounds a bit redundant, but it may fit the context better than omitting it.

charliedeut

[trueheart_205]

Thanks so much for your help. Now you make me more sure. Because I have just had a big argument with my roommates on this problem.

[tzfujimino]

Thanks so much for your help. Now you make me more sure. Because I have just had a big argument with my roommates on this problem.

Others might shed more light on this matter.
Let's wait. It's really an interesting topic for me.
My guess would also be it's redundant, which seems to be why those relative adverbs tend to be replaced by 'that'.

[anhnha]

Hi,
I have just found some links that have similar questions.
Reason Why « Pain in the English
phrases - "Have some reason you" or "Have some reason why you" - English Language and Usage
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2010/ju...mlins-julu-25/
http://community.write.com/topic/785...why-redundant/
Hope it help!

P.S: Not a teacher

[Barb_D]

It's redundant and, while not ungrammatical, generally considered to be poor style. I suggest you rewrite.