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

Mythos marked a paradigm shift in AI capabilities, reportedly delivering processing power that enables superhuman coding and reasoning, a massive performance leap over previous models. —Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 2 May 2026

The reasoning, which contradicted every previous Supreme Court decision on segregation, cited the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause. —Susan Shelley, Oc Register, 2 May 2026

Bowman, for his part, said his reasoning for bringing the pole up for discussion was much more mundane than some were suggesting. —Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 1 May 2026

DeSantis’ latest reasoning emerged Monday — and the outcome could lead to blatant political gerrymandering in Florida and the elimination of the Fair Districts Amendment approved by voters in 2010. —Lawrence Mower, Miami Herald, 1 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