Reason

/ˈriː.zən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A cause or explanation for an action or event.
The reason for the delay was due to heavy traffic.
The power of the mind to think, understand, and form judgments logically.
She used her reason to solve the complex problem.
A rational motive or justification for an action.
He explained his reason for quitting his job as a need for a better work-life balance.
verb
To think, understand, and form judgments logically.
She reasoned that if it rained, the picnic would be canceled.
To cause a conclusion or judgment to be made.
He reasoned that his decision was the best based on the available evidence.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Old French, from Latin ratio, ration-‘reckoning, reasoning’.

Common Phrases and Expressions

the reason why
The explanation or justification for something.
reason with someone
To talk with someone to persuade them to change their mind.
good reason
A valid or justifiable cause for an action.
reason out
To think through something logically.

Related Words

rational
Based on reason or logic.
logical
Of or according to the rules of logic or formal argument.
irrational
Not logical or reasonable.

Slang Meanings

The rationale behind someone's actions.
What's the reason behind your decision?
The thought process; common sense.
Come on, use your reason here.