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 Reading a separate memo from Barbabella, Leavitt said Trump had no symptoms of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease. Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 11 Oct. 2025 In one small study, individuals with depression saw improvement with 3 to 5 grams of daily creatine, but individuals with bipolar disorder saw symptoms worsen. Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2025 However, the symptoms were too much to bear. Stylecaster Editors, StyleCaster, 11 Oct. 2025 Kidney symptoms also occur in some people with IgA vasculitis. Ruth Jessen Hickman, Health, 11 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for symptom
Recent Examples of Synonyms for symptom
Noun
  • With themes of resilience, victory, and joy as a healing balm, Joy in the Belly of a Riot is a beautiful manifestation of how poetry has the power to heal and help one overcome pain.
    Lynnette Nicholas, Essence, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Wednesday’s fourth quarter was a manifestation of their Cinderella story.
    Marcus Thompson II, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • To commemorate his legacy, city and community leaders gathered on Thursday — on what would have been his 85th birthday — to install an honorary street sign at the intersection of Tooley Street and Oriole Street in Encanto.
    Maura Fox, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Oct. 2025
  • The researchers also uncovered signs of immune and inflammation pathways involved in the disease, which could help guide treatment in the future.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • So yes, this is a very unique characteristic of choux.
    Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Brian Stablein, then in his second season as an Indianapolis receiver, saw similar characteristics.
    Doug Haller, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Symptom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symptom. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

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