basic reasoning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basic reasoning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to fundamental logical thinking or the ability to make simple deductions. Example: "In order to solve this problem, we need to apply some basic reasoning to understand the underlying principles."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

The basic reasoning behind Deep Springs's decision was that it couldn't afford to change: some generous alumni had made it known that they would stop contributing.

The New Yorker

Mr. Romano said Advance is using this basic reasoning in its work on the 345,000-square-foot former Exxon International headquarters in Florham Park, acquired in late 2000, which it is stripping down to bare steel and rebuilding.

The New York Times

Or you can try basic reasoning, using the perfectly logical argument that beets are red, and so is Elmo, and that therefore children who love Elmo naturally love beets.

The New York Times - Food

This is the basic reasoning behind Sellars's scientific realism.

SEP

The basic reasoning behind these procedures are described.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

It can recognise and copy lists of numbers, carry out simple arithmetic, and solve basic reasoning problems.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

The LCTSR is a content-independent test of basic formal reasoning skills, including correlational, combinatorial, probabilistic, proportional, and hypothetico-deductive reasoning as well as the ability to identify and control variables.

CBE Life Sciences Education

The reasons for the flooding that persists in New Jersey and recurs year after year can be answered through basic geological reasoning.

The New York Times

The tests are to be carefully crafted to estimate a child's "baseline" abilities in very basic literacy, reasoning and cognition, rather than testing their knowledge as in a traditional examination.

The Guardian

This concept was not necessarily about students understanding the connections, but more about understanding basic mathematical reasoning.

International Journal of STEM Education

Further, outside of data analysis, Beth felt her students lacked basic mathematical reasoning when asked to scale their designs by a fourth, "Um, I was really surprised, they had a really hard time scaling down by a fourth".

International Journal of STEM Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When explaining complex topics, start by outlining the "basic reasoning" to ensure your audience grasps the core concepts before delving into intricate details.

Common error

Avoid obscuring the "basic reasoning" with unnecessary jargon or overly complex language. Ensure your audience understands the fundamental logic before introducing advanced concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basic reasoning" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often describing a fundamental cognitive process. As shown in Ludwig, it's used across various contexts to denote the application of elementary logic or rationale in problem-solving or decision-making.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "basic reasoning" is a common and correct phrase used to describe fundamental logical thinking. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted in written English. It appears frequently in both scientific and news contexts, emphasizing its versatility. When using "basic reasoning", ensure clarity and avoid obscuring the fundamental logic with unnecessary complexity. Alternatives like "elementary logic" or "simple deduction" can provide nuanced variations. By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "basic reasoning" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

elementary logic

Emphasizes the simplicity and fundamental nature of the reasoning process.

fundamental rationale

Focuses on the underlying principles and justification behind a decision or idea.

simple deduction

Highlights the process of drawing conclusions from straightforward evidence.

rudimentary logic

Similar to elementary logic, indicating a basic level of logical thinking.

foundational logic

Highlights the core or base of the reasoning process.

underlying logic

Refers to the implicit or less obvious principles that support an argument.

essential reasoning

Highlights the absolutely necessary or indispensable nature of the logical thought.

plain reasoning

Emphasizes the straightforward and uncomplicated aspect of the reasoning.

core reasoning

Indicates the central or most important part of the logical thinking.

logical rudiments

Focuses on the basic elements or first principles of logical thought.

FAQs

How can I use "basic reasoning" in a sentence?

You can use "basic reasoning" to refer to fundamental logical thinking. For example: "The solution requires applying some "basic reasoning"."

What's a good alternative to "basic reasoning"?

Alternatives include "elementary logic", "fundamental rationale", or "simple deduction", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "basic reasoning skills" or "reasoning skills"?

While both are correct, "basic reasoning skills" emphasizes the foundational nature of the skills being discussed. "Reasoning skills" is more general. Context determines the better choice.

Can "common sense" be considered a form of "basic reasoning"?

Yes, "common sense" often relies on "basic reasoning" to make practical judgments, although it can also incorporate experience and intuition.