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

His reasoning is that Tesla’s product will encourage more consumers to become more interested in driver-assist features — and boost Deeproute’s prominence in the sector. —Evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2024

Bob Dylan, of course, will never give us any answers about the reasoning behind his mystifying Twitter feed. —Devon Ivie, Vulture, 4 Nov. 2024

To bolster her reasoning, Elfenbein cited a 2008 dilution case that featured the longhorn silhouette logo of University of Texas athletics. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 3 Nov. 2024

In 2020, Michigan's attorney general used that reasoning to arraign two political operatives on felony charges connected to robo calls. —Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 2 Nov. 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