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

Example 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 Start by cooking the corn dog in your oven, air fryer or with your preferred method, following the instructions on the container. Cody Godwin, USA TODAY, 22 Jan. 2025 Shilpa and Jesse, can one of you walk us through your favorite instant pot bean method? Bon Appétit, 22 Jan. 2025 Traditionally reliant on word-of-mouth, the agency is stepping out of its comfort zone with the magazine project, which will shine a light on its methods and thinking. Joelle Diderich, WWD, 21 Jan. 2025 This method would have theoretically reduced CMS spending on clinical confirmatory trials that missed their completion date. Joseph Choi, The Hill, 21 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for method 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • During the warm months of the long Southern California dry season, houses relied on a haphazard approach to passive cooling.
    Richard Olsen, Forbes, 26 Jan. 2025
  • Baltimore’s crisis demands urgent action and a willingness to explore innovative approaches.
    Pradeep Thomas, Baltimore Sun, 26 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Expect a moment suspended in time around a bold menu employing techniques such as slow cooking, fermentation and decoction.
    Lily Templeton, WWD, 27 Jan. 2025
  • Dining Saba Restaurant marries local Balearic ingredients with traditional Asian techniques, offering dishes like sushi, gyozas, bibimbap, and a silky egg custard with lobster and dashi.
    Elizabeth Brownfield, Forbes, 26 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Self-care strategies can include regular exercise, a joint-friendly diet, and assistive devices.
    Lindsay Curtis, Health, 26 Jan. 2025
  • But look, this is an intentional strategy on the part of Trump's inner circle.
    ABC News, ABC News, 26 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
  • Tying them this way keeps them from touching each other so the air moves around them freely.
    Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 26 Jan. 2025
  • The Electoral College is so distorting, so bizarre, nobody on earth would come up with it if asked to design a fair way to choose a national leader.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 26 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • And so the manner of death — suicide or homicide — remained an open question.
    Ariane Lange, Sacramento Bee, 26 Jan. 2025
  • Compelling subject matter only goes so far when presented in such a bland, familiar manner.
    Vikram Murthi, IndieWire, 24 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near method

Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on method

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