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 Jimenez-Shahed noted that ideally, this new method could serve as an early diagnostic test, potentially easier than using spinal fluid, skin biopsies or specialized scans. Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025 In math a recursive function or method calls itself and is not just iterative and repetitive; the part requires the whole. Cindy Juyoung Ok june 26, Literary Hub, 26 June 2025 Start by cleaning up anything that has spilled using the methods outlined above. Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2025 The next step is to make an initial deposit with a secure payment method, like a credit card, debit card, online banking, PayPal account, etc. Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • His elastic counter-melodic approach to the bass redefined the role of the instrument in jazz and helped Evans reshape the very concept of the piano trio.
    Philip Martin, Arkansas Online, 19 June 2025
  • Helmed by Chair Jerome Powell, the Fed has stuck to its wait-and-see approach despite President Donald Trump's calls for cuts.
    Bailey Schulz, USA Today, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • The company says each body takes over 300 hours to create, with the metalwork shaped using traditional panel beating techniques.
    Alistair Charlton, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
  • Practice stress management: Engage in techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to lower stress levels, which can impact blood sugar.
    Lauren Manaker MS, Health, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • WhatsApp is now being folded into the company’s broader monetization strategy — and time will tell what kind of trade-offs users are willing to accept.
    Anisha Sircar, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
  • The strategy has led to renovation of tennis grounds for several Masters 1000 events in Cincinnati, Madrid, Rome, Paris and Shanghai.
    Jason Clinkscales, Sportico.com, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete review process and methodology page.
    Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 23 June 2025
  • Chaos testing, a methodology where systems are intentionally stressed to uncover hidden vulnerabilities, is gaining traction.
    Spencer Kimball, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • Many feel there are better ways to do it, but there has not been much change.
    Savannah Leigh Richardson, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 June 2025
  • How To Freeze Butter for Longer Storage Freezing butter is a great way to extend its shelf life but there are a few things to keep in mind before simply tossing it into the freezer.
    Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • As a result, he is expected to be featured in a significant manner at SummerSlam.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025
  • Additionally, the rate at which water freezes affects the shape and size in which bubbles form, in a predictable manner.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 20 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on method

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!