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reasoning

noun

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

See reasoning defined for English-language learners

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Examples of reasoning in a Sentence

  1. Could you explain your reasoning?

  2. They told everyone the reasoning behind the decision.

  3. a conclusion based on fallacious reasoning

  4. Humans possess the power of reasoning.

Recent Examples of reasoning from the Web

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.

First Known Use of reasoning

14th century

reasoning Synonyms

Synonyms
intellection, ratiocination, reason, logic, sense
Related Words
cogency, coherence, logicality, logicalness, rationality, rationalness; convincingness, persuasiveness; syllogism, synthesis; analysis, dissection; deduction, induction; argumentation, disputation
Near Antonyms
illogic, incoherence; absurdity, brainlessness, insanity, irrationality, nonsensicalness, preposterousness, senselessness

Phrases Related to REASONING

Related Phrases

REASONING Defined for English Language Learners

reasoning

noun

Definition of reasoning for English Language Learners

  • : the process of thinking about something in a logical way in order to form a conclusion or judgment

  • : the ability of the mind to think and understand things in a logical way

Learn More about reasoning

  1. See words that rhyme with reasoning Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for reasoning Spanish Central: Translation of reasoning Nglish: Translation of reasoning for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of reasoning for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reasoning

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Examples: reasoning in a Sentence