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

Experts must upload documents, demonstrate edits and explain the reasoning behind their feedback. —Alison Coleman, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026

The company says the model is designed to combine reasoning and creative generation in a single system, allowing users to build and modify video content through natural conversation. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026

Viewers watch officers conduct real-time traffic stops, issue warnings and citations, and explain the reasoning behind their decisions. —Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 22 May 2026

Executives announced the deal internally and shared the ethics committee’s decision, sparking backlash from employees who said they were concerned with the committee’s reasoning and Boston Dynamics’ inability to control situations in which the dog-like bot could be used by police, the people said. —Rachyl Jones, semafor.com, 20 May 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