reasoning

noun

rea·​son·​ing ˈrēz-niŋ How to pronounce reasoning (audio)
ˈrē-zᵊn-iŋ
Synonyms of reasoning
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

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The identical one-page motions did not explain the federal government's reasoning. — Rachel Treisman, NPR, 3 Aug. 2026 The company gave no official reasoning for its change of heart. — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 3 Aug. 2026 Speaking of redundancy, the keycaps include two different little brain icons—one with more wrinkles and one with fewer—used to increase or decrease the reasoning effort in your current composer panel. — Brian Westover, PC Magazine, 3 Aug. 2026 Uthmeier wants this policy to change, and has cited his own Catholic beliefs as part of his reasoning. — Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for reasoning

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reasoning was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing reasoning

Rhymes for reasoning

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Browse Nearby Words

reasoner
reasoning
reasonless
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Cite this Entry

“Reasoning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reasoning. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on reasoning

Nglish: Translation of reasoning for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reasoning

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