Reasoning

Definition

Reasoning refers to the process of thinking about something in a logical, methodical way to reach a conclusion.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (present participle of "reason")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈriːzənɪŋ/
• Respelling: REE-zuh-ning (with "REE" as in "see," "zuh" as a neutral sound, and "ning" as in "inning")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈriːzənɪŋ/
• Respelling: REE-zuh-ning (similar to American English, with "REE" as in "see," "zuh" as a neutral sound, and "ning" as in "inning")

In both dialects, "reasoning" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, "REE." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating each component of the word with emphasis on the "REE" syllable.

Etymology

The term "reasoning" is derived from the Middle English word "resounen", which meant "to explain or justify". It has its origins in Old French "raisonner" (to reason, discuss) and directly from Latin "rationare" (to compute or argue), which is from "ratio" (calculation, reason).

Derivatives

• Reasoner
• Unreasoning
• Reasoned
• Reasonably
• Reasonableness

Synonyms

• Logic
• Thought process
• Rationale

Antonyms

• Illogic
• Irrationality
• Nonsense

Usage

Reasoning is frequently employed to describe the logical or analytical process one undergoes when trying to come to a conclusion or make a decision.

Related Terms

• Rationality
• Thought
• Deduction

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The action of thinking about something in a logical, systematic manner.
• Example: His reasoning behind the decision was based on facts and statistics.

• An explanation or justification of an act, idea, or event.
• Example: She provided her reasoning for choosing the particular method.

Verb (present participle of "reason")

• The process of using rational thought to conclude or judge.
• Example: He was reasoning that the risks were too great to proceed.