Reasoned

Reasoned is an adjective describing something produced by careful thought and logical analysis. It denotes conclusions, explanations, judgments, or arguments that have been developed through deliberate reasoning and supported by evidence or inference rather than emotion or impulse.

A reasoned argument or decision includes a clear rationale. It often involves presenting premises, explaining the logical connections to the conclusion, and addressing counterarguments or relevant facts. In practice, "reasoned" signals transparency and justification in contrast to impulsive or unexamined positions.

Etymology: Reasoned is the past participle of reason, derived from Old French raison, which in turn comes from Latin ratio, meaning calculation, account, or plan.

Usage notes: The term is commonly applied in academic, legal, and public discourse to indicate that a claim has been justified through reasoning. It is related to, but distinct from, words like rational, logical, cogent, sound, justified, and evidence-based. A reasoned conclusion does not guarantee truth, but it implies that the conclusion follows from reasoned analysis and supported premises.

See also: reason, reasoning, rational, logical, cogent, justified, evidence-based.