Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
exercise of reasoning
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "exercise of reasoning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of thinking critically or logically about a subject or problem. Example: "The exercise of reasoning is essential in making informed decisions based on evidence and analysis."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
We may think that what we believe and do is largely under our conscious control, and we may believe that we should try to increase this control by the conscious exercise of reasoning and will power, but Brooks says that this is all wrong.
News & Media
The exercise of reasoning and the practice of argument is recorded in the early texts of India.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
No doubt there is some truth here, but this general attitude blinds us to how crippling the exercise of our reasoning faculties can often be.
News & Media
But perhaps my favorite recent crossover prizewinner is professor emeritus Daniel Kahneman, winner of the 2002 Nobel in economics and namesake of the Wilson School's new Center for Behavioral Science and Public Policy, whose body of work is a powerful exercise of experimental reasoning – in psychology.
Academia
The era of the early republic also saw the growth, especially among the urban educated elite of Boston, of a gentler form of Christianity embodied in Unitarianism, which rested on the notion of an essentially benevolent God who made his will known to humankind through their exercise of the reasoning powers bestowed on them.
Encyclopedias
His claim is just that such exercise of autonomous reasoning in the production of moral judgment is rare; in the vast majority of cases, our judgments result from immediate 'intuitions' reflecting emotional causation.
Science
As the later Rawls would put it, these theorists recognized, however dimly, the fact of reasonable pluralism that citizens who freely exercise their powers of reasoning will tend to pervasively and persistently disagree about their fundamental values and principles (Rawls 2005, xvii).
Science
However, because offenders exercise some degree of reasoning in their selection of a particular target over another, within a socio-spatial context, this choice will be determined by the subjective value of the target.
Science
It is worth observing that Hegel's philosophy of history is not the indefensible exercise of speculative philosophical reasoning that analytic philosophers sometimes paint it.
Science
In developing a method to slow this decline, the efficacy of Reasoning Exercises in Assisted Living (REAL), a cognitive training intervention that teaches everyday reasoning and problem-solving skills to AL residents, was tested.
A multisite, randomized, repeated-measures design compared three groups (intervention, attention control, and no-treatment control) to assess the efficacy of Reasoning Exercises in Assisted Living (REAL) in improving everyday problem solving and maintaining self-care.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "exercise of reasoning", ensure the context clearly indicates the type of reasoning being employed (e.g. ethical, logical, practical).
Common error
Avoid using "exercise of reasoning" as a generic substitute for all forms of thinking. Be specific about the type of reasoning involved to provide clarity and precision to your writing.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.4/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "exercise of reasoning" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes the application of cognitive processes. It emphasizes the active employment of reason in problem-solving, decision-making, or analytical tasks. As Ludwig suggests, it highlights the active and deliberate application of logical thinking skills.
Frequent in
Science
33.3%
News & Media
33.3%
Academia
33.3%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "exercise of reasoning" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression that signifies the active and deliberate application of logical and analytical skills. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is generally considered correct and suitable for formal contexts such as academic papers, news articles, and scientific discussions. While alternatives like "application of logic" or "use of critical thinking" may offer similar meanings, "exercise of reasoning" specifically emphasizes the active engagement and practice of rational thought. It's important to use it in contexts where the intentional and careful use of reason is being underscored.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
application of logic
Focuses on the practical use of logical principles.
use of critical thinking
Emphasizes the analytical and evaluative aspects of thinking.
practice of rational thought
Highlights the disciplined and systematic nature of reasoning.
application of cognitive skills
Broader term encompassing various mental abilities used in reasoning.
employment of intellect
Refers to the active use of one's intelligence.
implementation of deductive reasoning
Specific type of reasoning moving from general to specific.
engagement in analytical thinking
Focuses on breaking down complex information for analysis.
deployment of logical analysis
Highlights the strategic use of logical methods.
utilization of sound judgment
Emphasizes the quality and reliability of the reasoning process.
demonstration of intellectual prowess
Focuses on showcasing intellectual ability through reasoning.
FAQs
How can I effectively incorporate "exercise of reasoning" into my writing?
Use "exercise of reasoning" when you want to emphasize the active and deliberate application of logical or critical thinking skills to a particular problem or situation. For instance, "The successful resolution of the complex issue required a careful "exercise of reasoning"."
What are some alternatives to "exercise of reasoning" that I could use to diversify my writing?
You could use phrases like "application of logic", "use of critical thinking", or "practice of rational thought" to convey similar meanings with different nuances.
In what contexts is the phrase "exercise of reasoning" most appropriate?
The phrase is suitable in academic, professional, and formal settings where clear, logical thinking is valued. It's often used when describing problem-solving, decision-making, or analytical processes.
Is "exercise of reasoning" interchangeable with "reasoning exercise"?
While related, they have different meanings. "Exercise of reasoning" refers to the act of applying reasoning, while "reasoning exercise" refers to a specific activity designed to improve reasoning skills. The context should guide your choice.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.4/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested