# reasoning

/ˈɹizənɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹˈiːzənɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reasoning
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. logical thinking

noun · CEFR B2

the process of thinking about something in a clear and sensible way.

For teachers: the action of thinking about something in a logical, sensible way to reach a conclusion.

- I don't understand the reasoning behind your decision to quit your job.
- The committee's reasoning was based on a thorough analysis of the financial risks involved in the merger.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'behind' to explain the cause of an action.

### 2. a set of arguments

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

the reasons or arguments that someone uses to explain their ideas.

For teachers: a specific sequence of arguments or justifications used to support a particular viewpoint.

- The lawyer presented his reasoning to the judge during the trial.
- The paper provides a detailed line of reasoning that challenges the traditional interpretation of the historical data.

Usage: Commonly appears in the phrase 'line of reasoning'.

## Examples

- I do not understand the reasoning behind your decision.
- The committee asked the architect to explain the reasoning for choosing such expensive materials for the new library.
- While the conclusion of the study was popular, critics pointed out that the underlying reasoning was based on a series of unproven assumptions about human behaviour.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.