chains of reasoning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chains of reasoning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a series of logical steps or arguments that lead to a conclusion. Example: "In her essay, she presented several chains of reasoning to support her thesis on climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Chains of reasoning from secondary causes are often essential to making big discoveries.

The New Yorker

That approach developed naturally from theoretical math and logic, where problems are solved with linear chains of reasoning.

MIT Technology Review

Obsessions and fixations were as common as brilliant chains of reasoning, and every step forward seemed to be countered by two steps sideways and a half step back.

The New York Times - Science

Discussions were deployed in chains of reasoning distributed among discussants, but the teacher often decided to finalize the dialogue on the basis of pedagogical considerations.

Learning, Culture and Social Interaction

The same habits of mind that produce arbitrary and absurd chains of reasoning also produce the theories that splendidly annihilate our ordinary notions of time and space and logic.

The New Yorker

Unlike typical definitory rules, which deal with individual steps one by one, the strategic evaluation of reasoning deals with sequences of steps and ultimately with entire chains of reasoning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

clause is intended to include each of the reasons in a long chain of reasoning leading to the belief to count as reasons upon which the belief is based.

SEP

Is this the chain of reasoning?

The Economist

Hence, following such rules guarantees only the correctness of a chain of reasoning, not its efficiency.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And, he said of Dr. Shipman's essay, "it's a lovely chain of reasoning".

The New York Times - Science

The eroticizing of dessert, especially chocolate, may be an American contribution, based on a peculiarly Puritan chain of reasoning.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When constructing an argument, ensure your "chains of reasoning" are clear, logical, and supported by evidence. This will enhance the persuasiveness and credibility of your claims.

Common error

Ensure each step in your "chains of reasoning" is explicitly stated and justified. Do not assume the audience will automatically understand the connection between your premises and conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chains of reasoning" functions as a noun phrase that refers to a series of connected logical steps or arguments. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It describes how a conclusion is reached through a sequence of logical connections.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "chains of reasoning" denotes a series of logical steps that lead to a conclusion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, it appears consistently in reputable sources such as The New York Times and academic publications. To effectively employ this phrase, ensure each step in your logical progression is well-supported and clearly articulated. Consider using alternatives like "lines of reasoning" or "logical arguments" to diversify your writing. Avoiding unsupported leaps in logic will further strengthen your arguments. Remember that while the phrase itself is valid, the strength of the "chains of reasoning" ultimately depends on the validity and soundness of each individual link.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lines of reasoning

Focuses on the direction or path the reasoning takes.

lines of argumentation

Similar to lines of reasoning but more specific to argumentation.

reasoning sequences

Focuses on the sequential aspect of the reasoning.

logical arguments

Emphasizes the structured and valid nature of the arguments.

series of inferences

Highlights the inferential steps involved in the reasoning process.

argumentative sequences

Highlights the argumentative structure of the reasoning.

trains of thought

Refers to the connected sequence of thoughts and ideas.

step-by-step deduction

Emphasizes the gradual and deductive nature of the reasoning.

inferential pathways

Emphasizes the path and inference involved in arriving to a conclusion.

sequential logic

Implies a step-by-step and logical sequence.

FAQs

How can I use "chains of reasoning" in a sentence?

You can use "chains of reasoning" to describe a series of logical steps used to reach a conclusion. For instance: "The scientist presented compelling "chains of reasoning" to support their hypothesis."

What's a good alternative to "chains of reasoning"?

Depending on the context, you could use "lines of reasoning", "logical arguments", or "series of inferences" as alternatives.

How can I strengthen my "chains of reasoning"?

Strengthen your "chains of reasoning" by ensuring each step is logically sound, supported by evidence, and clearly explained. Address potential counterarguments to make your reasoning more robust.

What's the difference between "chains of reasoning" and "train of thought"?

"Chains of reasoning" imply a structured, logical progression towards a conclusion, whereas "train of thought" refers more generally to the sequence of thoughts passing through one's mind, which may not necessarily be logically connected.