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

Success at tests like puzzles and mazes, which appeared to Washburn to be the result of reasoning, or insight—observation and detection—Thorndike insisted was instead merely the result of blundering, repetition, and trial and error. —Jill Lepore, New Yorker, 9 May 2026

In their own filing, prosecutors disagreed with Crosland's reasoning, according to the report. —Peter D'abrosca, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2026

OpenAI’s premier reasoning model, GPT-5, performed better than both. —Peter Hall, Scientific American, 8 May 2026

Its public materials extend the same systems into research, software development, data analysis, business strategy, and other forms of reasoning-heavy work. —Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 8 May 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