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

The Future Of Education is AI AI is reshaping education—moving us away from memorization toward reasoning, understanding, and critical thinking. —Lutz Finger, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025

Their reasoning is that these products are poisoning Americans. —Ron Estes, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2025

In a Friday, March 28, press release shared with PEOPLE, the law firm announced that a judge issued a detailed judgment containing the court's legal reasoning for Riibe's immediate release. —Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 29 Mar. 2025

Their reasoning, according to Khan-Ghany, was that the small minority of Muslim students was not enough to justify changing the calendar for all students. —Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reasoning

• line of reasoning

Rhymes for reasoning

• seasoning

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