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 Concerned teachers Neas said the Department of Education also plays a role in training special education teachers and provides guidance to schools on innovative methods for teaching disabled children. Nicquel Terry Ellis, CNN, 22 Mar. 2025 Unfortunately, the methods to assure compliance lag behind the availability of the technology. Jaron Lanier, The New Yorker, 22 Mar. 2025 Learn how to clean a porcelain sink using safe and effective methods. Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 21 Mar. 2025 Ferrazzi introduces methods like stress testing, where team members openly challenge ideas in a structured format to refine decision-making. Build Psychological Safety First – For negotiation to be effective, team members must feel safe voicing concerns. Kwame Christian, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • The director also discussed his approach to specific technical elements, including a haunting, silent earthquake scene that was designed not to trigger audiences who had experienced actual seismic events.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 15 Mar. 2025
  • This outward approach is also now the defining feature of seven other Benetti craft—ranging from 131 to 236 feet—including its new B.Now series.
    Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 15 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Vettori also did a good job mixing up his techniques and targets, landing 38 leg strikes, eight body strikes, and 60 head strikes.
    Trent Reinsmith, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Additional troopers responded and attempted to use a box-in technique to prevent her from leaving the scene.
    Staff report, Hartford Courant, 15 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • In many ways, the account-for-it-later strategy is a bet on the still booming NFL.
    Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Such cross subsidies have long been a part of higher education's financial strategy, under which students in classes or fields that cost less to teach generally subsidize their counterparts in courses or disciplines that cost more.
    Jon Marcus, NPR, 15 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Jethro Tull is Back Everywhere Jethro Tull’s twenty-fourth proper studio album is also new to the Official Albums chart, the 100-space roster that details the most popular collections based on a methodology that includes streams and sales.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
  • For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
    Siena Gagliano, Allure, 18 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The sources described the relationship as not yet serious, but on its way to becoming so.
    Mark Davis, Newsweek, 15 Mar. 2025
  • As Betty gets into a cab, the couple, too, enter a car to presumably make their way to the city.
    Naomi Fry, The New Yorker, 15 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • One of the biggest mysteries in the cryptoasset sector is, despite the rapid and comprehensive pivot of U.S. policymakers to one of a pro-crypto outlook, why cryptoasset prices have yet to respond decisively and in a sustained manner.
    Sean Stein Smith, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
  • His manner with the girl is more bemused, placating.
    Joyce Carol Oates, The New Yorker, 16 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 29 Mar. 2025.

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