reasoning

rea·son·ing | \ ˈrēz-niŋ

How to pronounce reasoning (audio)

, ˈrē-zᵊn-iŋ \

Definition of reasoning

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 Example Sentences Learn More about reasoning

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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 Zimmerman, a two-time All Star, clarified his reasoning behind the decision are family related, and feels playing puts those love ones at risk. — Amanda Jackson, CNN, "Several baseball players are opting out of the 2020 MLB Season, citing 'personal health and safety'," 29 June 2020 In a university press release announcing the game last week, Brey explained his reasoning. — Tom Noie, The Indianapolis Star, "Noie: Non-league matchup with Howard bigger than basketball for Notre Dame," 27 June 2020 Then Cote, as leader, would make a decision and explain his reasoning. — Shawn Tully, Fortune, "Former Honeywell CEO David Cote just wrote one of the best guides ever on how to lead a company," 25 June 2020 Justice Sharon Kennedy agreed to the judgment, but not the reasoning behind it. — cleveland, "Ohio Supreme Court approves foreclosures that sell homes without compensating owners for equity," 25 June 2020 This statement of nonmedical exemption from parents and guardians must explain their reasoning based on personal or religious beliefs. — Devon Link, USA TODAY, "Fact check: No, Colorado bill does not mandate all students get vaccines without exception," 23 June 2020 Aero was clear about his reasoning for not playing Decay. — Sean Collins, Dallas News, "4 possible scenarios for the Dallas Fuel’s Saturday match against Toronto," 23 June 2020 Volkswagen's reasoning for not bringing the Arteon wagon to America is a familiar refrain. — Joey Capparella, Car and Driver, "Volkswagen Arteon Looks Even Better as a Wagon," 23 June 2020 Brown said that her reasoning in allowing Multnomah to reopen and not requiring counties that have already reached Phase 1 or Phase 2 reopening is that the potentially deadly virus is not circulating widely in the general population. — oregonlive, "Gov. Kate Brown explains her mask requirement, reopening rationale; health official admits error," 18 June 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'reasoning.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Dictionary Entries near reasoning

reasonable facsimile

reasonable part

reason of state

Statistics for reasoning

Last Updated

2 Jul 2020

Cite this Entry

“Reasoning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reasoning. Accessed 3 Jul. 2020.

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