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

Human beings possess powers of emotional reasoning that give us an edge. —Tara Sonenshine, The Conversation, 11 Feb. 2025

The president did not share his reasoning for pausing China’s de minimis ban, but he may have been swayed by a meeting with FedEx chairman and founder Frederick W. Smith, who reportedly visited the White House on Thursday. —Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 7 Feb. 2025

Harrison’s take on the difference between the 1s and 0s of machine learning and the emotional fallibility of human reasoning is something familiar, but this focus on objects did stick with me. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 6 Feb. 2025

For middle schools, local districts will choose from pre-approved curricular options that also includes Illustrative Math, which encourages students to use reasoning over memorization. —Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 5 Feb. 2025

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