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

Does Swanson understand the reasoning behind this decision? —Patrick Mooney, New York Times, 7 June 2026

These tasks include learning, reasoning, problem-solving, understanding language and recognition patterns. —Jeff Lazerson, Oc Register, 4 June 2026

Google says the new model is capable of complex multistep reasoning and agentic workflows that previously required the larger Gemma variants. —ArsTechnica, 3 June 2026

Some are stronger in writing; others in reasoning, coding, or research. —Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 3 June 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