What is defined as a statement offered in explanation or justification?

The correct choice is a reason because it specifically refers to a statement that provides an explanation or justification for a belief, action, or conclusion. In the context of reasoning and argumentation, a reason supports or explains why something is the case or why a particular stance is taken. It gives the rationale behind decisions or assertions, making it essential for effective communication and logical discussions.

To further clarify, a claim is a statement that asserts something to be true, which may or may not be supported by evidence or reasoning. A conclusion, on the other hand, is the outcome or result derived from synthesizing various claims and reasons. Lastly, a fact is an objective statement that can be proven true or false, lacking the subjective justification that a reason provides. Thus, in any argument or explanation, the role of reason is crucial as it directly relates to providing clarity and understanding of the underlying logic.