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.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 Some molds produce mycotoxins, toxic substances that can cause food poisoning symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2025 Many people do not experience symptoms from the disease, while others experience fever, muscle pain, headache, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, according to the WHO. Fernando Ramos and Sanika Tank, CNN Money, 18 Apr. 2025 In some cases shingles may even prompt gastrointestinal symptoms. Cheyenne Buckingham, SELF, 17 Apr. 2025 Very high doses—more than 5,000 milligrams per day—can lead to magnesium toxicity, causing more severe symptoms like low blood pressure, muscle weakness, and abnormal heart rate. Alex Yampolsky, Health, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for symptom
Recent Examples of Synonyms for symptom
Noun
  • Are these conflicting phrases truly what's in the review — or a manifestation of Carmy's (White) anxiety?
    Randall Colburn, EW.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • The paradox is that these manifestations, on the contrary, bring Ukraine closer to its common enemy, as in Russia, homophobia is flourishing with incredible force right now.
    Sonya Vseliubska, IndieWire, 28 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Additionally, self-care can sometimes be a sign of confidence and longevity, rather than simply personal maintenance.
    Rhiannon Frater, USA Today, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Talks are ongoing between the U.S. and teams from Kyiv and Moscow, but Washington threatened last week to quit negotiations if there was no imminent signs of compromise.
    Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 29 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • In 2010, for example, literary scholar Julie Brown suggested that renowned American poet Emily Dickinson had characteristics – such as sensory issues, social quirkiness and a savant’s command of language – that align with those of some individuals on the autism spectrum.
    Bradley J. Irish, The Conversation, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Users still can't control the number of speakers, their demographic characteristics, accents, or conversation length.
    Roger Dooley, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Symptom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symptom. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

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