notify

Definition of notifynext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb notify differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of notify are acquaint, apprise, and inform. While all these words mean "to make one aware of something," notify implies sending notice of something requiring attention or demanding action.

notified the witness when to appear

When can acquaint be used instead of notify?

Although the words acquaint and notify have much in common, acquaint lays stress on introducing to or familiarizing with.

acquaint yourself with the keyboard

When might apprise be a better fit than notify?

In some situations, the words apprise and notify are roughly equivalent. However, apprise implies communicating something of special interest or importance.

keep us apprised of the situation

When could inform be used to replace notify?

While in some cases nearly identical to notify, inform implies the imparting of knowledge especially of facts or occurrences.

informed us of the crisis

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 notify The refinery’s current fenceline air monitoring plan was approved by the Air District in June 2025 after Chevron and other local refineries were notified in 2023 that the companies were not in compliance with the Air District’s monitoring requirements. Sierra Lopez, Mercury News, 30 May 2026 OpenAI had previously flagged her ChatGPT conversations as having a disturbing fascination with extreme violence, and suspended her account, but reportedly the company did not notify law enforcement. Anat Lior, Fortune, 30 May 2026 The cyclist’s identity was expected to be released by Yolo County coroner’s officials after next of kin were notified. Sacbee.com, 29 May 2026 The ticket request period ends June 7, at which point Ticketmaster will begin to process requests and notify recipients. Mike Stunson, USA Today, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for notify
Recent Examples of Synonyms for notify
Verb
  • The vibe is more relaxed while still being acutely supportive and informed.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 May 2026
  • The routines that informed the self are gone.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 27 May 2026
Verb
  • Authorities advised anyone who may have touched or been bitten by the bat to contact the Alameda County Public Health Acute Communicable Disease Program at 510-267-3250 and seek immediate medical attention.
    Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 31 May 2026
  • The Western Interstate Commission also advises universities on potential ways to offset the decline.
    Elizabeth Hernandez, Denver Post, 31 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Notify.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/notify. Accessed 2 Jun. 2026.

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