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 The traditional diet of restricting calories is a tried-and-true method for weight loss — but new research reveals that a certain intermittent fasting regimen may be more effective. Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 9 Apr. 2025 Below are four of the most prevalent and damaging DNS attack methods. David Redekop, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025 Despite its relatively old-school tech, when paired with fresh whole beans and a fine-tunable coffee grinder, even beginners can make some great coffee with a little knowhow (just read our guide to coffee brewing methods). Adam Campbell-Schmitt, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Apr. 2025 Choosing the expert who has direct experience with the exact situation the company is going to be facing, along with verifying the effectiveness of their method, will help companies see the true value in the right coach. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • As the deadline for Real ID approaches, many Americans are racing to secure the necessary identification for domestic air travel and access to federal buildings.
    Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Gill agrees that this approach is potentially promising.
    Andrea Thompson, Scientific American, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The modern technique and the ancient recipes of this part of France are what create a new interpretation of Saint Emilion.
    Valentina Di Donato, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Suffolk County prosecutors have argued that the technique is widely accepted, per News 12.
    Christine Pelisek, People.com, 28 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Through countless films, TV series, Amblin events, awards campaigns and our public relations strategy—this is where Marvin came alive.
    Jack Dunn, Variety, 9 Apr. 2025
  • The Eurofins partnership builds on the shopping platform’s strategy to ramp up product safety and compliance.
    Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
    Annie Blackman, Allure, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Accreditation bodies, which significantly influence educational legitimacy, resisted these new methodologies, highlighting the systemic barriers to change.
    Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Credit to Mattice for stepping up but there's nobody at 130 pounds getting in my way.
    Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • The best way to prevent type 2 diabetes is to shift toward a healthier lifestyle.
    Julia Ries, Health, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Only a few of the artists attempt to perform the songs in the uniquely laidback manner in which Velvet originally did them.
    Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 12 Apr. 2025
  • The fight essentially played out in that manner.
    Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 12 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

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