reason

//ˈriːzən//
B1Frequency Level 3Neutral
Visual representation of reason

Noun

reasonSingular
reasonsPlural
1

A cause, explanation, or justification for an action or event.

She gave no reason for her decision.

2

The power of the mind to think, understand, and form judgments logically.

Humans are distinguished from animals by their capacity for reason.

3

Good sense or sound judgment; rationality.

He finally listened to reason and changed his mind.

Verb

1

To think, understand, and form judgments by a process of logic.

Humans have the ability to reason and solve complex problems.

2

To find an answer to a problem by considering various possibilities.

She reasoned that if the store was closed, they must have gone home.

3

To persuade someone with rational arguments.

She tried to reason with him, but he wouldn't listen.