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 In other markets like Minnesota, streaming could be the primary distribution method. Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 30 July 2026 The report, released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and the Loss Prevention Research Council and sponsored by Sensormatic Solutions, revealed that other methods of external theft, fraud and scams had increased in 2025 versus 2024. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 30 July 2026 Using blood detection methods, crime scene investigators also found blood remnants on the holes, the floor below, the kitchen sink, bathroom sink and bathroom floor. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 July 2026 As with one of the earlier works, attempts to simulate this on classical hardware require some simplification, and different simplification methods yield different results. ArsTechnica, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • Asked about Apple’s AI offerings, including the upcoming Siri AI, Cook said the company saw an opportunity in running more AI directly on users’ devices, an approach that Apple believes can appeal to privacy-minded users.
    Alexei Oreskovic, Fortune, 31 July 2026
  • Several years in the making, the formula went through multiple rounds of development before landing on an approach that feels refreshingly straightforward.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • With all of our efficiency tools and techniques, one of the most underutilized yet consistent sources of return on investment is recovery.
    Mena Mirhom, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Qiu was known for research working with a cutting-edge technique known as base editing to make custom treatments for children with rare diseases.
    Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • Both of those strategies are very reasonable and appropriate and even data-driven.
    Annalisa Merelli, STAT, 5 Aug. 2026
  • At the same time, the term won't be so long as to prevent a savings strategy shift as soon as next summer.
    Matt Richardson, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Platforms, agencies, measurement providers and creator marketing companies must work together to develop standards that serve marketers rather than protect proprietary methodologies.
    Zoe Soon, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
  • The secretaries demanded detailed descriptions of the methodology DHS used as well as transparency about what state voter lists DHS analyzed.
    Miles Parks, NPR, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • The next day, make your way to the river—there are a few punting stations surrounding the park.
    Katie Silcox, Vogue, 6 Aug. 2026
  • The league will also shrink in some ways, including moving from 14 events per year to 10 – five team and five individual events that will take place all over the world.
    Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Currently, the production of the attachment has been outsourced to a commercial 3D printing company in Idaho that makes durable attachments in a quick and affordable manner.
    Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 31 July 2026
  • Earlier this month, Crump released the preliminary findings of an independent autopsy, which listed Wells’ cause and manner of death as undetermined pending further investigation.
    Adam England, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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