Reasoning
ˈriːzənɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsThe action of thinking about something in a logical, sensible way.
ˈriːzənɪŋ
The process of thinking about something in a logical way.
His reasoning for the decision was well-articulated.
💡 Simply: Reasoning is like being a detective in your own mind. It's how you figure things out by using facts and logic to connect the dots and come to a smart conclusion, like when you're trying to solve a puzzle or decide what to have for dinner.
👶 For kids: Using your brain to think about things and figure out the answer to a problem.
More Examples
She used careful reasoning to solve the mathematical problem.
The strength of their argument lay in its sound reasoning.
How It's Used
"Cognitive psychologists study human reasoning."
"The judge's reasoning in the case was widely debated."
"Her reasoning was flawed, leading to the wrong conclusion."
The process of drawing conclusions from facts or evidence.
ˈriːzənɪŋ
The statements or arguments used to support a claim.
Her reasoning was based on scientific evidence.
💡 Simply: Reasoning is also the reasons and explanations you give to back up what you believe or want. It's like the proof you offer to show why your idea is right, similar to when you explain why you want to get a new toy, listing all its cool features.
👶 For kids: The reasons why you think something is true or right.
More Examples
The lawyer’s reasoning convinced the jury.
The reasoning provided in the report was insufficient.
How It's Used
"The debater presented strong reasoning to support their position."
"The essay’s reasoning needed further development."
Synonyms
Analysis
Deduction
Inference
Logic
Argument
Defense
Explanation
Justification
Rationale
Idioms & expressions
by reason of
Because of; due to.
"The store closed by reason of the storm."
in reason
Within the bounds of what is considered reasonable or fair; appropriately.
"He treated everyone in reason."
to reason with
To try to persuade someone by using logical arguments.
"I tried to reason with him, but he wouldn't listen."
From Middle English *resounynge*, present participle of *resounen* (“to reason”), from Old French *raisone*, from Latin *ratio* (“reason, calculation”).
The term 'reasoning' has been used since the late 14th century, evolving from the Old French word *raisone*, which in turn came from the Latin word *ratio* meaning 'calculation' or 'reason'.
Memory tip
Imagine a clear, logical path leading to a conclusion - that's reasoning.