adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of reasoned
Explanation
Anything that's sensible or thoughtful can be described as reasoned. A reasoned decision about which candidate to vote for requires some research and careful thought. You probably assume that most rulings made by judges are reasoned — they're logical and intelligent. If you have a friend who tends to act in an irrational or foolish way when he's upset, you also assume that in certain circumstances his decisions won't be reasoned. The adjective reasoned comes from reason, from the Old French raisoner, "speak, discuss, or argue."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He reasoned that if the lodge was going to accommodate more than 20 guests, which was the intent, they’d need a massive great room.
From MarketWatch • Jul. 6, 2026
Slow and steady wins the race, I reasoned.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 18, 2026
He reasoned authorities did not arrest them because people out partying "won't focus on the resistance".
From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026
Hugo Boss said it would "thoroughly examine the offer and issue a reasoned statement".
From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026
Perhaps Burr reasoned that, since he was being treated as a new Benedict Arnold, he might as well enjoy the fruits of a similar treason.
From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
