reasoning

1 of 2

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

reasoning

2 of 2

present participle of reason entry 2

Synonyms of reasoning

Noun

• logic
• reason

Examples of reasoning in a Sentence

Noun

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

Noun

And what was the reasoning behind Haley Stevens’s ludicrously capacious hat? — José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 5 Nov. 2026

Augosto also wants improvements to education, although his reasoning differs from Hann’s. — Roger Simmons, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Nov. 2026

The high court did not detail its reasoning, as is common in emergency decisions. — Lindsay Whitehurst, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2026

The court did not explain its reasoning, issuing only a one-sentence order. — Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 2 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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