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 Launched in May 2024, K2 Pictures is working with major Japanese filmmakers including Shunji Iwai and Hirokazu Kore-eda on a slate of projects to be financed through a film fund, breaking with Japan’s less flexible production committee method of financing films. Liz Shackleton, Deadline, 5 Nov. 2025 This method enhances the sauce to a new depth of flavor, according to Massari. Francesca Giuliani Hoffman, CNN Money, 5 Nov. 2025 Of course, a reliable method for measuring a team’s performance is to use underlying metrics to understand the team’s process more than its outcomes. Mark Carey, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025 Below, experts shared some of the most impactful prevention methods. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • The research team claimed that this approach enables AeroMap to capture the main effects of drag without the high computing demands of more detailed simulations.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2025
  • This uneven approach means leaders can’t take a one-size-fits-all approach.
    Feon Ang, Fortune, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Hadsel follows similar techniques to teach Splash in his home swimming pool.
    Frederick Dreier, Outside, 11 Nov. 2025
  • Lin and her fellow researchers create adaptability in the garments by using velcro or metal snaps in place of standard stitching techniques; that in mind, a designer can use those snaps to detach or reattach pieces of the garment depending on the need.
    Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 11 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Their decision has highlighted deep divisions over legislative priorities and political strategy as lawmakers scramble to resolve the shutdown and address its nationwide consequences.
    Deputy News Editor, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Nov. 2025
  • What happened next, this time, was strange, and not uniformly validating for the Democrats’ strategy.
    Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 11 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Challenger’s report does not typically carry the same weight with economists and investors as federal jobs data, owing to its methodology.
    Steve Kopack, NBC news, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Its data spans categories, locations and time periods, according to DataWeave's methodology.
    Courtney Reagan, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • On Friday night the Supreme Court granted the request to block full SNAP payments as the case works its way through the courts.
    Nicole Nixon, Sacbee.com, 10 Nov. 2025
  • And the biggest November snowfall ever recorded in the city is 12 inches, all the way back in 1895.
    Briana Waxman, CNN Money, 10 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • For the Blue Jays, Bichette would be their franchise shortstop in the same manner he's been for the last few years.
    Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Once testing is complete, DSS will work closely with our EBT vendor to issue benefits in a timely manner.
    Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 5 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on method

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