symptom

as in manifestation
something that indicates the presence of something else (such as a disease or problem) A sore throat, a runny nose, and frequent sneezing are some of the symptoms of the common cold. Homelessness is only a symptom of larger problems in our society.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word symptom distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of symptom are mark, note, sign, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

Where would mark be a reasonable alternative to symptom?

While in some cases nearly identical to symptom, mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When is note a more appropriate choice than symptom?

The words note and symptom are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

In what contexts can sign take the place of symptom?

Although the words sign and symptom have much in common, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

When could token be used to replace symptom?

In some situations, the words token and symptom are roughly equivalent. However, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

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 symptom Many content creators oversimplified or overstated the symptoms of ADHD without reliable sources to back them up. Brittney Melton, NPR, 25 Mar. 2025 However, some women present with symptoms like Adams, but are misdiagnosed for years. Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 24 Mar. 2025 This reinforces the understanding that poor sleep is not just a symptom, but a contributing factor to mental health challenges. Lia Miller, Parents, 14 Mar. 2025 Fogginess in the morning is a common symptom in people who have a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea, and a visit with a physician might be needed to rule out underlying disorders, Schütz said. Taylor Nicioli, CNN, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for symptom
Recent Examples of Synonyms for symptom
Noun
  • Multi-day vacations remained out of reach for most working people, and many of them resented the upper classes’ summering as a manifestation of inequality.
    Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.
    Rachel Wolf, Fox News, 22 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The tulip is considered one of the biggest signs of warmer months on the horizon and as such, tulip festivals have become a very popular attraction all over the world.
    Kaitlyn McInnis, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Aside from waiting until the average last frost date has passed, the seedlings will give signs when they can be transplanted outside.
    Lauren David, Southern Living, 23 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • To pick some specific characteristics, no two athletes are going to have identical muscle constructions, bone densities, leg lengths, centres of gravity, tendon strength, foot-size or foot arches.
    Liam Tharme, The Athletic, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Each impart different characteristics due to their distinct wood grain and chemical compositions.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Symptom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symptom. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

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