reasoning

noun

rea·​son·​ing ˈrēz-niŋ 

ˈrē-zᵊn-iŋ

1

: the use of reason

especially : the drawing of inferences or conclusions through the use of reason

2

: an instance of the use of reason : argument

Synonyms

• intellection
• logic
• ratiocination
• reason
• sense

Examples of reasoning in a Sentence

Could you explain your reasoning?

They told everyone the reasoning behind the decision.

a conclusion based on fallacious reasoning

Humans possess the power of reasoning.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, others who have tempered their expectations are suggesting that the new reasoning model is o1, which has not yet been fully available. —John Werner, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

Whatever their personal reasoning, the recent slew of American celebs heading for foreign hills shows no signs of stopping. —Katie Schultz, Architectural Digest, 6 Dec. 2024

Each step in the reasoning was explained—the logical steps were understandable even to a non-technical eye—and Reasoner then suggested follow-up questions about the problem’s impacts and how it could be mitigated. —David Meyer, Fortune, 4 Dec. 2024

The Biden administration insists the same reasoning applies to the Equal Protection Clause and Tennessee’s gender-affirming care ban should be invalidated. —Zach Schonfeld, The Hill, 4 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reasoning

• line of reasoning

Kids Definition

reasoning

noun

rea·​son·​ing

1

: the use of reason

2

: the reasons used in and the proofs that result from thought : argument