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 archdiocese notified the Leawood Police Department, who arrested Storey on Saturday morning. Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 23 May 2026 Honorees will be notified to be interviewed and photographed, potentially including video. Tracie Rawson, Baltimore Sun, 22 May 2026 The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office will release the man’s name after notifying next of kin. Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 22 May 2026 When Guinea notified the WHO of the outbreak, in March 2014, there were still only 49 cases and 29 deaths. Stephanie Psaki, The Atlantic, 22 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
  • It's advised for those with respiratory or heart-related issues to limit outdoor activity this afternoon.
    Lauren Bostwick, CBS News, 24 May 2026
  • Any pair of scissors with a blade over four inches is restricted, advises the TSA spokesperson.
    Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 24 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Notify.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/notify. Accessed 31 May. 2026.

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