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 Use the following information as a guide to determine the appropriate method for fixing drafty doors, based on the location of the leaks. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Oct. 2025 Victoria discussed payment, methods, and timing in messages discovered on a phone that was eventually confiscated from Amato by security guards. Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Oct. 2025 And Cheryl Porter, the vocal coach and entrepreneur behind the world’s number one vocal training method, who’s built a multi-million dollar global brand with over 45 million followers. Essence, 22 Oct. 2025 In its absence, Adam Smith, the NOAA scientist who led the effort for over a decade and was among the many federal employees who left the agency, revived the data at Climate Central using the same NOAA methods. Ignacio Calderon, USA Today, 22 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • The approach allowed the ship to host the missile battery without any structural modification.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2025
  • But the sequence was indicative of the Broncos’ general offensive approach under Payton after the first quarter in London.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 17 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Michael Meredith, an avid duck hunter, will teach basic calling techniques.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Antipsychotic medications can reduce hallucinations and delusions, while therapies and rehabilitations can address specific concerns, like teaching cognitive techniques or enhancing social skills to interact with others.
    Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 21 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Supporting the Army’s next phase The M-SHORAD Increment 4 effort is a major part of the Army’s broader modernization strategy.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 21 Oct. 2025
  • The county added jobs beginning in July 2023 and new strategies to improve efficiency, according to the statement.
    Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • But this point isn't fully reflected in the report, UW system spokesperson Mark Pitsch said, potentially because the report relies on methodologies and data that disadvantage low-tuition institutions in states that provide limited aid.
    Kelly Meyerhofer, jsonline.com, 15 Oct. 2025
  • So to work with Rick and find somebody of my generation that had all the same gifts that Peter had, as far as team building, workshopping and methodology of his own cinema education, was amazing.
    Stuart Miller, Oc Register, 13 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The disappointment of losing to Watertown yet again, this time a 2-1 decision in early September that could’ve gone the other way.
    Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 20 Oct. 2025
  • In one of the more truly unimaginable comebacks in recent franchise history, the Broncos clawed all the way back from a 19-point fourth-quarter deficit to down the Giants 30-26 at Empower Field on Sunday.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • But being here on the ground, seeing how the community has banded together to stand up for these hostages — alive or dead — has impacted me in a different manner.
    Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Additional charges included negligently driving a vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner, endangering property, life, and person, as well as recklessly driving a vehicle in wanton and willful disregard for the safety of persons and property.
    Diane J. Cho, PEOPLE, 22 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 23 Oct. 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!