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

EarthAI uses foundation models and cross-modal reasoning to provide geospatial insights that can improve environmental monitoring and disaster response. —James Manyika, Fortune, 16 Feb. 2026

In a series of tweets shared over the weekend, the former star of MTV‘s The Hills launched a tirade of posts against her brother containing her reasoning for why he should not be elected, along with some allegations against him, including a claim of assault. —Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 15 Feb. 2026

The counties must also hold a public hearing explaining the reasoning for the moratorium or conflicting standards. —Cami Koons, Iowa Capital Dispatch, 13 Feb. 2026

The participants, who ranged in age from 65 to 94 at the start of the trial, were randomly placed in groups for 10 training sessions in memory, reasoning, or speed of processing. —Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 13 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