Definition of methodnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word method different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of method are fashion, manner, mode, system, and way. While all these words mean "the means taken or procedure followed in achieving an end," method implies an orderly logical arrangement usually in steps.

effective teaching methods

Where would fashion be a reasonable alternative to method?

The words fashion and method are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, fashion may suggest a peculiar or characteristic way of doing something.

rushing about in his typical fashion

How do manner and mode relate to one another, in the sense of method?

Manner is close to mode but may imply a procedure or method that is individual or distinctive.

an odd manner of conducting

In what contexts can mode take the place of method?

Although the words mode and method have much in common, mode implies an order or course followed by custom, tradition, or personal preference.

the preferred mode of transportation

When can system be used instead of method?

While the synonyms system and method are close in meaning, system suggests a fully developed or carefully formulated method often emphasizing rational orderliness.

a filing system

When might way be a better fit than method?

The words way and method can be used in similar contexts, but way is very general and may be used for any of the preceding words.

has her own way of doing things

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 method Among the methods the law permitted to stop voting discrimination in states was the creation of majority-minority congressional districts. ABC News, 2 July 2026 Engineers could compare different surface coatings and fabrication methods to identify options that produce the least electrical noise, helping improve the performance of future quantum computers and quantum sensing technologies. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026 The goal is to develop proficiency in cybersecurity terminology and the technical skills essential for identifying common cyberattack methods. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 To compliment the sights, NASA also produced new sonifications—a method to transform astronomical information into often ethereal soundscapes. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • Mouth Competitive eaters have a unique approach to eating that differs significantly from that of the average person.
    Jennifer Borresen, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • But even opening on 1,500 screens, Harris’ brilliantly dexterous approach proved too much for the film’s marketers.
    Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • These conditions had much higher fatality rates in 1776 because Americans had no antibiotics, few vaccines, no understanding of germ theory, no sterile surgical techniques and limited access to hospitals, experts note.
    Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
  • Creativity, though, presumes a background in classic technique onto which a personal point of view is added.
    Laura Clawson, JSTOR Daily, 3 July 2026
Noun
  • Each issue is filled with breaking news, deep insights and exclusive strategies for becoming a better traveler.
    Christopher Elliott, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • Teams that are not ready solve yesterday's problems and call it strategy.
    Tracy Lawrence, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • The News & Observer previously covered the methodology of sanitation scores.
    Eva Flowe July 3, Charlotte Observer, 3 July 2026
  • Our methodologies Below are CNBC Select's methodologies for choosing and ranking our best mortgages for first-time homebuyers and our mortgage reviews.
    Kelsey Neubauer, CNBC, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Ahead, everything to know about this beachside favorite, along with refreshing ways to style this timeless look all summer long.
    Katherine J Igoe, InStyle, 2 July 2026
  • Still, the way the ordinance is worded also prohibits teaching yoga for free, Pease pointed out.
    Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • But even here, where the damage is being done gleefully and wantonly, the US Congress has stood up to these funding cuts in a bipartisan manner.
    Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 3 July 2026
  • The platform should be structured in a manner that is intuitive, engaging and easy to navigate, enabling employees to quickly locate relevant information and resources.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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