Synonym Chooser

How is the word method different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of method are fashion, manner, mode, system, and way. While all these words mean "the means taken or procedure followed in achieving an end," method implies an orderly logical arrangement usually in steps.

effective teaching methods

Where would fashion be a reasonable alternative to method?

The words fashion and method are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, fashion may suggest a peculiar or characteristic way of doing something.

rushing about in his typical fashion

How do manner and mode relate to one another, in the sense of method?

Manner is close to mode but may imply a procedure or method that is individual or distinctive.

an odd manner of conducting

In what contexts can mode take the place of method?

Although the words mode and method have much in common, mode implies an order or course followed by custom, tradition, or personal preference.

the preferred mode of transportation

When can system be used instead of method?

While the synonyms system and method are close in meaning, system suggests a fully developed or carefully formulated method often emphasizing rational orderliness.

a filing system

When might way be a better fit than method?

The words way and method can be used in similar contexts, but way is very general and may be used for any of the preceding words.

has her own way of doing things

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of method Using the avalanche method to target loans with the highest interest rates can save the most money over time. Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 10 Jan. 2025 Different organizations use slightly different methods to calculate the global temperature and have different baselines. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 10 Jan. 2025 The government, meanwhile, has employed orthodox methods to try and tamp down inflation, to some success, and has blamed economic collapse on sanctions by the United States and others, especially restrictions on the nation's key oil industry. USA TODAY, 10 Jan. 2025 Dietary changes, incorporating more physical activity, and stress management techniques are among the methods for shedding extra pounds. Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for method 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • Two current Bears have experience playing under Vrabel in Tennessee and lauded his approach.
    Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 14 Jan. 2025
  • Both planes aborted their approaches, circled the airport and then landed without incident, in a recording archived on LiveATC.net.
    Joel Rose, NPR, 14 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Its portfolio highlights its commitment to regional influences and craft techniques, resulting in unique, nuanced American single malts that capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest style and brewing traditions.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025
  • She’s considered a pioneer in the field of cosmetic procedural dermatology and is passionate about the delivery techniques of neuromodulators and soft tissue fillers, as well as a wide variety of laser systems for aesthetic surgery.
    Claire Sullivan, WWD, 15 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • The government is set to announce a new tech strategy in early February.
    Paolo Confino, Fortune Asia, 14 Jan. 2025
  • Develop an ongoing strategy to gather data and observe what's happening in your environment.
    Debo Ray, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • The common factor in most such attacks is the phishing aspect, so that’s where the mitigation methodology must sit: this fascinating article explores methods of mitigating phishing attacks.
    Davey Winder, Forbes, 18 Jan. 2025
  • According to the methodology, CASPERs typically involve selecting 30 census blocks and interviewing seven households within each block.
    Tammy Murga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Self-Regulation People with RSD have reported various ways to self-manage their symptoms, and better respond to rejection.
    Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025
  • Begin by clamping at the root and work your way down the hair shaft in one-to-two-inch sections, holding each for just a few seconds, to achieve the look.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 14 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • The American cowboy is an aspirational bastion of masculinity, and as Costner proves, of manners.
    Caroline Reilly, Robb Report, 15 Jan. 2025
  • Troopers are still investigating what led to the two cars hitting each other in a head-on manner.
    Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 14 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near method

Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 21 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on method

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