able to reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's capacity for logical thinking or rational decision-making. Example: "Humans are generally considered to be able to reason, which sets them apart from many other species."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They're going to be able to reason about them.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"You're not going to be able to reason with them.

The New Yorker

Within our model, constraint DSS agents are able to reason cooperatively with users or with other agents.

Decision Support Systems

Current information-flow control techniques are able to reason about permitted information flows, but not required information flows.

Harvard University

When all is said and done, the computer is not truly able to reason through a problem.

The New York Times

The primary function of a university should be to produce well-rounded, engaged individuals able to reason and question.

The Guardian

Computers may one day be able to reason exactly as humans do, but will they ever be as dumb?

The New Yorker

This enables users to be aware of collaborative search activities within a project, and to be able to reason about potential missing files (i.e., false negatives) more effectively.

Advanced Engineering Informatics

On top, we add the modalities of dynamic logic so to be able to reason about what happens after an action is performed.

The Journal of Logic and Algebraic Programming

However, the current Web DSS applications are not able to reason over information present across organizational boundaries which could be incomplete and conflicting.

Knowledge-Based Systems

This system is able to reason on ontologies to give suggestions that help users to create theory-compliant collaborative learning scenarios.

Computers & Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to reason", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is reasoning about. For example, "able to reason about complex ethical dilemmas."

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the extent to which something or someone is "able to reason". Be realistic about the limitations of rational thought in specific situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to reason" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, describing the subject's capacity for rational thought and logical deduction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard and acceptable construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "able to reason" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe the capacity for logical thinking. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It finds application across diverse fields, including science, news, and academia, emphasizing its broad relevance. When using this phrase, consider related options like "capable of reasoning" and ensure your context clearly defines the subject of reasoning. Being mindful of the potential to overstate this ability will enhance clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of reasoning

A more formal synonym, emphasizing the inherent capacity for logical thought.

having the ability to reason

Focuses directly on the inherent skill or aptitude for reasoning.

equipped to reason

Highlights the possession of the necessary tools or skills for reasoning.

competent to reason

Highlights the adequacy and skill level related to logical thinking.

in a position to reason

Emphasizes the circumstances that allow for rational thought.

prepared to reason

Implies readiness and willingness to engage in rational thought.

qualified to reason

Suggests meeting certain standards or criteria to be considered capable of reasoning.

fit to reason

Indicates a suitable state or condition for rational thinking.

empowered to reason

Emphasizes being given the authority or means to engage in logical thought.

authorized to reason

Suggests official permission or mandate to perform reasoning tasks.

FAQs

How can I use "able to reason" in a sentence?

You can use "able to reason" to describe someone's capacity for logical thinking, as in, "The student was "able to reason" through the complex problem and find a solution."

What are some alternatives to "able to reason"?

Some alternatives include "capable of reasoning", "equipped to reason", or "having the ability to reason" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "able to reason" or "able to be reasoned"?

"Able to reason" is the correct phrasing when referring to the capacity for logical thought. "Able to be reasoned" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "able to reason" and "likely to reason"?

"Able to reason" indicates a capability or potential, while "likely to reason" suggests a probability or tendency. For example, someone might be "able to reason", but not always "likely to reason" due to emotional factors.