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

On Monday afternoon, seven state Assembly members and two state senators issued a statement calling on the board to delay the vote, echoing criticism from Uber that the public had insufficient time to consider it or the reasoning behind the change. —Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026

One of the things that distinguishes human beings from most other animals is the prefrontal cortex, a section of the brain concerned with learning, reasoning and problem-solving (among other things). —Dr. Deepika Chopra, Flow Space, 10 Mar. 2026

What Slowing Biological Aging Might Look Like As biological age advances, Espeland says, adults can develop decreased muscle and bone health, metabolic dysfunction, decreased reaction times, and issues with memory and reasoning. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 9 Mar. 2026

But Lunardi’s reasoning is that SMU’s struggles aren’t too uncommon. —Lia Assimakopoulos, Dallas Morning News, 9 Mar. 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