English Reference

Phrasal verb

reason with

Definition

phrasal verb. to talk to someone in a calm, logical way to try and change their mind. You use this when someone is being difficult or emotional.

phrasal verb. to persuade someone through logical argument or rational discussion. The verb is intransitive and requires the preposition 'with' to introduce the person being addressed.

Examples

“I tried to reason with him, but he wouldn't listen.”

“When the toddler started crying in the supermarket, his mother tried to reason with him about why he couldn't have the toy.”

“Diplomats spent hours attempting to reason with the rebel leaders, hoping that a logical appeal to their long-term interests would prevent further conflict.”

Examples

simple

“I tried to reason with him, but he wouldn't listen.”

contextual

“When the toddler started crying in the supermarket, his mother tried to reason with him about why he couldn't have the toy.”

complex

“Diplomats spent hours attempting to reason with the rebel leaders, hoping that a logical appeal to their long-term interests would prevent further conflict.”

Usage

Always followed by the person you are trying to convince.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'argue with'; 'reason with' implies a calm, logical approach rather than a heated conflict.

Pitfall

I tried to reason him.

I tried to reason with him.

The verb 'reason' requires the preposition 'with' when followed by the person being persuaded.

Phrasal verb

Particles

with

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

reason + with + object

Synonyms

persuadetalk sense intoconvincenegotiate with

Antonyms

argue withignoreforce

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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