ability of reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability of reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing cognitive functions, critical thinking, or the capacity to make judgments and decisions based on logic. Example: "The ability of reason is essential for effective problem-solving and decision-making in complex situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Different ideas about humanity were developing, some encouraged by the growing power of science and an increasing faith in the ability of reason to transform the world, others by the dismantling of old hierarchies and the development of democracy.

The New York Times - Arts

Ockham had argued for stringent limits on the ability of reason to establish the existence of God.

SEP

The Pyrrhonian would point out that the Academic Skeptic maintains confidence in the ability of reason to settle matters at least with regard to the extent of our knowledge of propositions in the EI-class.

SEP

These principles are obviously not mutually exclusive, 'but the dictate of reason to pursue good is rationally and necessarily derived from the command to obey God.' Synderesis is the ability of reason that never errs in the recognition of those universal rules of moral action, since a denial of their universal validity contravenes human reason.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

As Father Fessio observes, Catholics accept three different ways of learning about reality: empirical observation, direct revelations from God and, between those two categories, "natural philosophy"—the ability of human reason to discern divine reason in the created universe.

The Economist

A brain that possesses the power of reason and ability to ponder life's most ancient riddles: why are we here, is there intelligent life beyond our galaxy, or the one question that has puzzled mankind since the beginning of time…." Cut to Zoolander saying, "If God exists, why did he make ugly people?" It gave me a chuckle, but I was surprised there wasn't more….fashion.

Los Angeles Times

O'Neill commented that Hamilton was remarkable for " his faith in the power of reason" and his ability to conjure whole systems of government and practical solutions from abstract principles.

Forbes

His optimism about the ability of human reason and will to find truth and reach salvation contrasts starkly with the pessimism of the Jansenist apologist and mathematician Blaise Pascal (1623 62), who believed that salvation comes only as a gift of God's grace.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the fifteenth century, the German philosopher Nicholas of Cusa (1401 64) in De docta ignorantia denied the ability of human reason to gain knowledge of God.

SEP

Because of our fallen state, William has little regard for the ability of human reason to correctly discern what is good.

SEP

While an argument for the existence of God as "first conserver" of things could be made, Ockham had argued against the ability of natural reason to prove there was only one divine being.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ability of reason" when you want to emphasize the power and capacity of logical thought in decision-making or understanding complex concepts.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "ability of reason" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "reasoning skills" or "thinking ability" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability of reason" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It denotes the inherent capacity to think logically and make sound judgments, a fundamental aspect of human cognition.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ability of reason" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that highlights the capacity for logical and rational thought. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, but its use is relatively rare, primarily appearing in formal and scientific contexts. While alternatives like "capacity for reasoning" or "power of reasoning" offer similar meanings, "ability of reason" emphasizes the inherent capability. Understanding its function and register can help writers use it effectively to convey the importance of logic and rationality in various discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Capacity for reasoning

This alternative emphasizes the potential or inherent capability to reason.

Power of reasoning

This alternative highlights the strength and effectiveness of logical thought.

Faculty of reason

This alternative refers to reason as a distinct mental ability or power.

Rational faculty

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of reason that relies on logic and rationality.

Reasoning prowess

This alternative emphasizes exceptional skill and expertise in reasoning.

Intellectual capacity

This alternative focuses on the general ability to understand and learn.

Cognitive ability

This alternative is a broader term encompassing all mental processes related to knowledge.

Logical thinking skills

This alternative focuses on the practical application of reason in problem-solving.

Discursive ability

This alternative refers to the capacity to think methodically and logically.

Mental acuity

This alternative highlights sharpness and quickness of thought.

FAQs

How to use "ability of reason" in a sentence?

You can use "ability of reason" to emphasize the power and capacity of logical thought in decision-making or understanding complex concepts. For example: "The development of critical thinking relies heavily on the "ability of reason"."

What can I say instead of "ability of reason"?

You can use alternatives like "capacity for reasoning", "power of reasoning", or "faculty of reason" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "ability of reason" or "reasoning ability"?

Both "ability of reason" and "reasoning ability" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Ability of reason" emphasizes the capacity itself, while "reasoning ability" focuses on the skill or competence in reasoning.

What's the difference between "ability of reason" and "intellect"?

"Ability of reason" specifically refers to the capacity for logical thought and deduction, while "intellect" is a broader term encompassing all mental faculties including memory, knowledge, and understanding.