method

noun

ˈme-thəd How to pronounce method (audio)
Definition of methodnext
as in approach
the means or procedure for doing something the city council is stuck in the last century and needs to adopt more modern methods for doing things

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 Treatments that Help Manage Chronic Redness & Rosacea There are many methods to help manage chronic redness and rosacea, and that are effective in menopausal women, including laser treatments and prescribed creams. —Taylor Lane, Flow Space, 4 Apr. 2025 One way to manage your debt is the debt avalanche method. —Kat Tretina, Sacbee.com, 4 Apr. 2025 His work has been cited by the Federal Trade Commission, and the BBC has replicated his research method to report on how many video game companies do not comply with regulations. —Zoya Hasan, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025 Dehydrating is a tried and true method that has many positive benefits for your health and budget. —Jordan Liberty Phillips, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
  1. approach
  2. technique
  3. strategy
  4. methodology
  5. way
  6. manner
Noun
  • This approach allows the system to generate new frames on demand rather than following traditional rendering rules.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 8 Apr. 2025
  • In it, Blanche outlines a decentralized approach in which U.S. attorney’s offices will now take the lead on digital asset cases, focusing primarily on crimes involving terrorism.
    — MacKenzie Sigalos, CNBC, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of approach
Noun
  • The modern technique and the ancient recipes of this part of France are what create a new interpretation of Saint Emilion.
    — Valentina Di Donato, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
  • No easy fixes Google had no comment on the new technique or if the company believes the new attack optimization poses a threat to Gemini users.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 28 Mar. 2025
Definition of technique
Noun
  • Through countless films, TV series, Amblin events, awards campaigns and our public relations strategy—this is where Marvin came alive.
    — Jack Dunn, Variety, 9 Apr. 2025
  • However, the decision to pause for Easter underlines a shift toward recognizing spring holidays as part of broader workplace wellness strategies.
    — Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of strategy
Noun
  • To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
    — Annie Blackman, Allure, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Accreditation bodies, which significantly influence educational legitimacy, resisted these new methodologies, highlighting the systemic barriers to change.
    — Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of methodology
Noun
  • Credit to Mattice for stepping up but there's nobody at 130 pounds getting in my way.
    — Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • What are some safe and effective ways to exercise while following the keto diet?
    — Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 9 Apr. 2025
Definition of way
Noun
  • The family of a woman who was strangled to death last year during a conjugal visit with her husband at a Northern California prison has called for reforms after a second woman was killed in a similar manner.
    — Summer Lin, Los Angeles Times, 29 Mar. 2025
  • Chicago Med, for example, has delivered solid ratings for years on NBC, but The Pitt has become the stuff of online discourse and fandom in a manner that feels unusual for a straightforward procedural today.
    — David Sims, The Atlantic, 28 Mar. 2025
Definition of manner

Browse Nearby Words

metes (out)
method
methodical
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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