symptom

as in manifestation
something that indicates the presence of something else (such as a disease or problem) A sore throat, a runny nose, and frequent sneezing are some of the symptoms of the common cold. Homelessness is only a symptom of larger problems in our society.

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word symptom distinct from other similar nouns?

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

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

Where would mark be a reasonable alternative to symptom?

While in some cases nearly identical to symptom, 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 note a more appropriate choice than symptom?

The words note and symptom are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

In what contexts can sign take the place of symptom?

Although the words sign and symptom have much in common, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

When could token be used to replace symptom?

In some situations, the words token and symptom are roughly equivalent. 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 symptom Summer heat, outdoor fun … and cold and flu symptoms? Devi Shastri, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2025 Sometimes, kidney problems do not produce any symptoms. Karen Berger, Verywell Health, 15 Aug. 2025 Recognize warning signs: Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Star-Telegram Weather Bot, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Aug. 2025 What are some symptoms and signs of flesh-eating bacterial illness? Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 14 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for symptom
Recent Examples of Synonyms for symptom
Noun
  • In many ways, Vance’s rise has been a compelling manifestation of that retreat.
    Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 15 Aug. 2025
  • Prior to the tumor's manifestation, her only symptom had been a sore arm, which the doctors chalked up to arthritis.
    Simar Bajaj, NPR, 12 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The two were not wealthy, but were driving a Hyundai Grandeur, a car that was considered a sign of wealth at the time.
    Kayti Burt, Time, 15 Aug. 2025
  • It will be closely monitored for signs that the two leaders could take steps toward a peace deal or ceasefire.
    Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The Justice Department earlier this month published a list of the nine characteristics of sanctuary jurisdictions.
    Laura Tillman, Hartford Courant, 16 Aug. 2025
  • Can’t a mother have characteristics outside of that culturally narrowed scope?
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Symptom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symptom. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

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