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

This discipline, debating until the best idea survives, teaches future leaders to welcome scrutiny, pressure-test their own reasoning, and make tough calls with limited information. —Ruth Umoh, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2025

The woman adds context in an edit, explaining that her mom’s reasoning partly comes down to logistics. —Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025

There is a problem with this reasoning. —Harmon Siegel, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025

The exact reasoning behind Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban’s breakup hasn’t been revealed. —Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 30 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