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 of reasoning

• logic
• reason

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

Today, the technology industry is understandably focused on copilots, autonomous systems, reasoning models and the promise of AI that can take action rather than simply generate content. — Michael Nicosia, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

Atlanta Jewish Times Publisher Michael Morris, in a scathing rebuke, sought to dismantle Ossoff’s reasoning. — Ramsey Touchberry, The Washington Examiner, 16 Aug. 2026

That experience eventually led to my reporting earlier this week on the reasoning behind the LAPD’s decision to deploy the technology and the co-existing community concerns. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 16 Aug. 2026

The donor’s reasoning gets examined at length; the communities depending on the outcome are treated as a destination, not a party to the decision. — Vandana Arcot, Fortune, 14 Aug. 2026

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