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note

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noun

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as in memo
a usually brief written reminder I'll make a note to myself so I don't forget to pick up some milk on the way home

Synonyms & Similar Words

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as in letter
a message on paper from one person or group to another write a friendly note to the neighbors asking them to keep the noise down

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word note distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of note are mark, sign, symptom, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

When could mark be used to replace note?

The words mark and note can be used in similar contexts, but mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When is it sensible to use sign instead of note?

The words sign and note are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

Where would symptom be a reasonable alternative to note?

In some situations, the words symptom and note are roughly equivalent. However, symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

In what contexts can token take the place of note?

The meanings of token and note largely overlap; however, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

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 note
Verb
As Justice Amy Coney Barrett noted, surely that includes the lesser power to tariff imports. Morgan Chalfant, semafor.com, 7 Nov. 2025 The building also served as an American Legion Post, as noted by the historical plaque mounted on the property's front yard. Jim Riccioli, jsonline.com, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
The lack of vetoes signals Crowley's agreement that the board's changes strike the right note of protecting services for vulnerable residents while steering the county toward a more fiscally responsible future. Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 7 Nov. 2025 There’s even audience participation, as the crowd lifted bouquets of flowers overhead, timed with Grande’s high notes. Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 7 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for note
Recent Examples of Synonyms for note
Verb
  • Newsweek reached out to the Republican Committee of Beaver County to comment on this story outside of normal business hours.
    Kate Plummer, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • In a thread posted by r/starbucks, Redditors commented on expectations the item would sell out quickly.
    Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 5 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Dak Brinkley shows pass rushing ability KU freshman defensive end Dak Brinkley recorded the first two sacks of his college career on back-to-back plays in the second quarter.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 9 Nov. 2025
  • The Hornets have recorded five or more sacks five times this season.
    Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 9 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Teams that set meeting windows, encourage short breaks, and support ergonomic basics may notice steadier output and fewer end-of-week slumps, especially when people adjust lighting, seat height, and screen distance to reduce eye strain.
    Jason Phillips, IndyStar, 11 Nov. 2025
  • And when his hospital finally reopened, in February of the following year, doctors began noticing unexpected changes.
    Clayton Dalton, New Yorker, 11 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Mikie Sherrill, the successful Democratic candidate for governor of New Jersey, made freezing electric rates a centerpiece of her victorious campaign, and got huge applause in mentioning the issue in her victory speech.
    Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Ciattarelli called Sherrill to congratulate her on the results and did not mention Trump in his address.
    Sydney Lake, Fortune, 5 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • He was appointed interim commissioner in August following the retirement of former Commissioner Alan McClain.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 6 Nov. 2025
  • In Virginia, Abigail Spanberger secured the governorship with a decisive lead over Republican Winsome Earle-Sears, while Mikie Sherrill prevailed in New Jersey following a campaign centered on affordability and public safety.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • In a memo later that day to SNAP state agency directors, the USDA said people would receive a maximum of 65% of their benefits.
    Detroit Fress Staff, Freep.com, 7 Nov. 2025
  • The memo also mentioned that United will offer about 4,000 flights per day.
    James Powel, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Trump has in fact sent a letter threatening legal action to the BBC, the corporation confirmed.
    Ellise Shafer, Variety, 10 Nov. 2025
  • One letter obtained by WGME starts by expressing condolences for the passing of an individual.
    Jenna Sundel, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • There’s going to be a lot of oohs and aahs and cries and laughs and love.
    Kirsten Chuba, HollywoodReporter, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Women from the village, who were down washing clothes in the river, heard the cries and rallied the community to help, Dumasá said.
    Daniel Gonzalez, AZCentral.com, 5 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Note.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/note. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

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