by reasoning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by reasoning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a conclusion or understanding is reached through logical thought or deduction. Example: "She arrived at her decision by reasoning through the various options available to her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But he passed them by, reasoning that real celebrities would have drivers standing outside.

The New York Times

This charge is arrived at by reasoning backward from the fact of those crowds.

The New York Times

Other physicists attack problems by doing complicated calculations; he solves them by reasoning from first principles.

The New Yorker

The unsatisfying answer must be that it depends on what is meant by reasoning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I foresee men failing to protect themselves (or their partners) during intercourse by reasoning, Don't worry, I'm circumcised.

The New York Times

You have nothing to gain by reasoning with the guy on the subway shouting about the end of the world.

The New York Times

Gandhi tried to draw the warring communities out of their suspicion and fanaticism by reasoning and persuasion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

More success was attained in his work, he said, by reasoning with people than by issuing commands.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She remained in the marriage for another year by reasoning that at least her husband hadn't fallen in love with another woman.

The New York Times

On election night, I answered that question by reasoning that everyone celebrating Mr. Obama's victory felt part of the same team.

The New York Times

"Every man has commission to admonish, exhort, convince another of error, and, by reasoning, to draw him into truth," Locke writes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by reasoning" to clearly indicate that a conclusion or decision was reached through a logical thought process, enhancing the clarity of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "by reasoning" in very informal conversations or casual writing, where simpler alternatives like "because" or "so" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by reasoning" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or clause, indicating the method or process by which an action is performed or a conclusion is reached. Ludwig provides many examples of how this phrase is used in context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

27%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by reasoning" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that a conclusion or understanding is reached through logical thought or deduction. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in written English. Its neutral-to-formal register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, particularly in science, news media, and encyclopedic content. While simpler alternatives exist for informal settings, "by reasoning" excels in situations requiring clarity and precision. The frequent usage of "by reasoning" across reputable sources highlights its importance in conveying well-supported and logically derived ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through deduction

Emphasizes reaching a conclusion by applying general rules to specific cases.

via logical thought

Highlights the use of structured and coherent thinking to arrive at an understanding.

through inference

Focuses on deriving conclusions from evidence or premises.

by logical analysis

Implies a systematic examination of the elements or structure of a subject.

by applying logic

Suggests a conscious effort to use logical principles.

based on rational thought

Highlights the use of reason as the foundation for an idea or action.

using rational processes

Focuses on mental processes that employ reason and logic.

through sound judgment

Indicates a conclusion reached by making careful and reasoned decisions.

on the basis of logic

Expresses that logic forms the foundation for a decision or understanding.

by intellectual means

Suggests the use of cognitive and analytical abilities.

FAQs

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

You can use "by reasoning" to show that a conclusion or decision was reached through a logical thought process. For example, "She arrived at her decision "by reasoning" through the various options available to her."

What are some alternatives to "by reasoning"?

Alternatives include "through deduction", "via logical thought", or "through inference". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "by reason" instead of "by reasoning"?

"By reason" and "by reasoning" are related but have slightly different nuances. "By reason" often implies a general cause or justification, while "by reasoning" specifically emphasizes a thought process. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "reasoning" and "rationalizing"?

"Reasoning" refers to a logical thought process aimed at reaching a conclusion. "Rationalizing", on the other hand, often involves creating seemingly logical explanations to justify actions or beliefs, especially when those actions or beliefs are not entirely logical or justifiable. The former is associated with objectivity while the latter is associated with justification.