Definition of methodnext

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 method used in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) bases lottery rankings on the past two seasons combined, buffering the payoff for any tanking. Joseph Howlett, Scientific American, 11 May 2026 Your payment method will automatically be charged in advance the introductory rate every 4 weeks for 1 year, and after 1 year the standard rate every 4 weeks. New York Times, 11 May 2026 Circle also raised $222 million from BlackRock, Apollo, Intercontinental Exchange and other institutions in a token presale – a method for early-stage blockchain projects to raise capital. Davis Giangiulio, CNBC, 11 May 2026 My methods for hiding my poetry also evolved over time. Maria Giesbrecht, PEOPLE, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • Some are backing away from exclusionary discipline like suspensions and expulsions and have embraced schoolwide approaches that reward positive behavior and provide social skills practice through games and role-playing.
    Stacker, Hartford Courant, 9 May 2026
  • Suzuki and Detmers both felt the walks were more a product of the Blue Jays’ approach than his control.
    Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 9 May 2026
Noun
  • Quinn has cycled through various management techniques over the past two decades.
    Stacker, Hartford Courant, 9 May 2026
  • The Sixers made their run by intentionally fouling Mitchell Robinson away from the ball — the classic Hack-a-Shaq technique.
    Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 9 May 2026
Noun
  • Yet beneath the surface, many creators are operating without structure — no strategy tying the pieces together, no plan for when the pace changes.
    Sandra Richards, Rolling Stone, 8 May 2026
  • City officials credited the reduction to proactive enforcement strategies, daily police operations by uniformed and plain-clothes officers, and strong relationships with residents and business owners that support communication and crime prevention efforts.
    Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 8 May 2026
Noun
  • Our team uses an in-house methodology to rank each home warranty provider.
    Alora Bopray, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026
  • To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 28 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Following Friday’s pregame festivities, Pedro Martinez made his way up to the press box and said standing on the field with his fellow club legends gave him goosebumps.
    Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 9 May 2026
  • The Moon in Aquarius moves through your 12th House and trines Venus in Gemini, helping reflection and emotional clarity work in practical ways.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 9 May 2026
Noun
  • By the time officers arrived, the situation had escalated into what officials described as an active shooter incident, with the suspect walking down the middle of Memorial Drive and firing in an erratic manner as traffic came to a halt.
    Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 12 May 2026
  • The San Diego County medical examiner’s office ruled his cause of death to be asphyxia and classified the manner as a homicide.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 13 May. 2026.

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