modus operandi

noun

Definition of modus operandinext
as in method
formal a usual way of doing something the thief's modus operandi

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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 modus operandi KatzPascale’s entire modus operandi now is to liberate the process. — Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 11 June 2026 The modus operandi extends beyond the interior, shaping how each space relates to the sea and the owner’s style of living. — Rachel Ingram, Robb Report, 31 May 2026 Not surprisingly, Marx isn’t the only gubernatorial candidate for whom exaggeration and mythologizing are the modus operandi. — Krista Kafer, Denver Post, 28 May 2026 Killing became the modus operandi of politics. — Roberto Andrés, The Dial, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for modus operandi
Recent Examples of Synonyms for modus operandi
  1. method
  2. plan
  3. manner
  4. approach
  5. recipe
  6. style
  7. strategy
  8. technique
Noun
  • Ferries are a common transportation method in the Philippine archipelago.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 10 Sep. 2026
  • Windstar passengers can tour the ancient castle at the hilly town’s zenith, lounge on one of the sandy beaches, or visit an olive grove, where extra-virgin olive oil is produced using traditional methods.
    — Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Sep. 2026
Definition of method
Noun
  • Depending on your situation, a debt management plan, debt consolidation or simply negotiating directly with creditors may be a better option.
    — Becca Stanek, TheWeek, 7 Sep. 2026
  • Their plan to find a long-term answer at QB appears centered on the 2027 draft, which is expected to feature a more talented class with the likes of Arch Manning, Dante Moore, Julian Sayin and CJ Carr.
    — Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 6 Sep. 2026
Definition of plan
Noun
  • The United States should thus push everyone to reinterpret the benefit-sharing provisions in a more generous manner.
    — Anna Nelson, Foreign Affairs, 4 Sep. 2026
  • That are, again, all spoken at the same time, in a manner that could grate the nerves coming from the hands of any other filmmaker, but Herzog is entirely sincere and irony-free in his handling.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of manner
Noun
  • Some of that was due to the injuries on the offensive line, but some of it could be attributable to O’Connell’s approach as a play caller as well.
    — Matt Schneidman, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Rocket Lab used a different approach to diversify after achieving success with its small Electron launch vehicle.
    — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of approach
Noun
  • That is the takeaway from a new study in which researchers revealed a new bio-recipe for 3D printing habitats on the Red Planet.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 10 Sep. 2026
  • This is a book in which the tricks, takeaways and techniques are embedded in the recipes themselves.
    — Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of recipe
Noun
  • Mikel Arteta’s champions are built around a solid defence and strangling the opposition through possession, while Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea have had very little of the ball during his first few games, but have still built an exciting style.
    — Chris Waugh, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026
  • Hers was a captivating return, combining the innate theatricality of her poise with a bold, sophisticated style steeped in historical references to haute couture.
    — Giacomo Aricò, Vogue, 5 Sep. 2026
Definition of style
Noun
  • Gabby Giffords herself is another key part of the campaign strategy.
    — Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 10 Sep. 2026
  • His intelligence and technical ability were a perfect match for Bielsa’s high-risk, high-line strategy.
    — Amitai Winehouse, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of strategy
Noun
  • It’s based on the alleged hiring of Scarpa by the FBI during the civil-rights era, when he was twice brought to Mississippi to use certain interrogation techniques that were considered off the table for agents.
    — Alison Willmore, Vulture, 4 Sep. 2026
  • Unlike an Olympic campaign, where sailors spend hundreds of hours every year refining technique on the water, SailGP teams get only a handful of days between events.
    — Andrew Rice, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026
Definition of technique

Browse Nearby Words

modulations
modus operandi
moggies
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Cite this Entry

“Modus operandi.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/modus%20operandi. Accessed 11 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on modus operandi

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about modus operandi

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