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 According to VoteBeat, Hicks and Hovland were notified of their removal by an email signed by Morgan DeWitt Snow, the deputy director of presidential personnel in the Executive Office of the President. Bill Barrow, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026 Employees were notified of the Morrison sale before the public announcement, the YMCA said. Charlotte Observer, 10 July 2026 The governor is required to notify local officials 56 days before the special election must occur, and candidates must be nominated at least 49 days prior to the election. Sara Dorn, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026 Owners will be notified through July 30, according to the recall notice. Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 10 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for notify
Recent Examples of Synonyms for notify
Verb
  • Emergency responders arrived on the scene and were informed that the victim had been pulled by the current flowing through Sebonac Creek into the Great Peconic Bay, the statement said.
    Megan Fahrney, ABC News, 6 July 2026
  • The company also informed members about 2026 premium changes through phone calls, text messages, regular mail, or email, Baiocchi said.
    Susan Jaffe, NPR, 6 July 2026
Verb
  • Enterprises are advised to carefully evaluate these solutions based on ownership, cost, and enforcement, as the industry seeks to standardize this critical layer for AI agent deployment.
    Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
  • To minimize risks during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises incorporating frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 6 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Notify.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/notify. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on notify

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster