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

• 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

According to the company, multiple benchmark results showed that its model’s overall performance surpassed that of Chinese AI start-up DeepSeek’s latest reasoning model. —Dylan Butts, CNBC, 17 Sep. 2025

Today, models can analyze complex documents, write production-ready code, interpret visual data and act as the core reasoning engine for autonomous agents. —Ajay Pundhir, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025

This would help develop their own critical thinking and reasoning skills. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 17 Sep. 2025

Fed Chair Jerome Powell is scheduled to hold a news conference to explain the Committee's reasoning and outlook that could provide further guidance for investors and economists. —Gabe Whisnant hollie Silverman, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025

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