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

Hold back on acting on emotional reasoning in a financial matter. —Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 3 Feb. 2026

But Judge Biery’s decision — which has gotten a lot of attention in legal circles and beyond — is much more than a dry specimen of judicial reasoning. —A.o. Scott, New York Times, 3 Feb. 2026

While that quote stems from a separate case, Mehta’s broader antitrust reasoning reflects similar concerns about market power and information control. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 3 Feb. 2026

Building Competence Through Intensive Training Accelerated nursing programs teach their students focus, drive, and readiness through concentrated coursework that covers foundation sciences, clinical reasoning, and patient-care techniques. —Kansas City Star, 3 Feb. 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