reasoning

[ree-zuh-ning, reez-ning] / ˈri zə nɪŋ, ˈriz nɪŋ /

NOUN

logic, interpretation

Synonyms

STRONGEST

acumen analysis argument hypothesis inference interpretation premise proposition rationale thinking

STRONG

case cogitation concluding corollary deduction dialectics exposition generalization illation induction logistics proof ratiocination rationalizing reason syllogism thought

WEAK

apriority syllogization train of thought

Antonyms

STRONGEST

reality truth

WEAK

irrationality nonsense

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But wait, you might object, the so-called reasoning models don’t just sit around doing nothing—they think for minutes, sometimes hours, on end!

From Slate • May 25, 2026

Using spells and legal reasoning, they rallied the community to defeat a greedy dragon and use its gold hoard to rebuild the city.

From Los Angeles Times • May 24, 2026

“Gemini’s world knowledge and reasoning really shine in Omni.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

My bargaining with the moral universe is that I still listen to “Off the Wall,” weakly reasoning that it came out before Jackson launched his Peter Pan act.

From Salon • May 14, 2026

If it had survived the war, the reasoning went, then it could survive the Tallises.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

Vocabulary lists containing reasoning

Argumentative Writing

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The AP English Exam: The Language of the Test

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!