Reason — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

a statement given to explain a belief or act

"she gave a good reason for her seemingly suspicious behavior"

something (as a belief) that serves as the basis for another thing

"a firm belief that we are here on earth to help others is the reason for her tireless volunteer work"

an explanation that frees one from fault or blame

"what reason do you have for being in such a bad mood?"

someone or something responsible for a result

"what's the meteorological reason for tornadoes?"

the ability to learn and understand or to deal with problems

"you'll need to use all of your reason to get out of this tight spot"

the normal or healthy condition of the mental abilities

"was afraid that with all the stress he was under, he'd lose all reason"

the thought processes that have been established as leading to valid solutions to problems

"in a time of national crisis we need to listen to the voice of reason"

to form an opinion or reach a conclusion through reasoning and information

"she reasoned that since all of the cakes were on sale for the same price, she might as well pick the biggest one"

to state (something) as a reason in support of or against something under consideration

"he tried to reason that no one in their right mind would buy his brother's old video games, but they were put on the online auction anyway"