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 Keep The Sales Conversation Valuable Making useful information public does not require publishing pricing, proprietary methods or a solution to every prospect’s problem. — Dennis Kirwan, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026 Assassin is a real-life game played around the world, with NERF guns or water pistols most commonly used as the assassination method. — Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 13 Oct. 2026 Exact plans for how it will be carried out, beyond the method, haven't been made public. — Meagan Harris, CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 EnergyX has already tested the method in labs, pilot facilities, and demonstration plants in the US and Chile. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for method
Recent Examples of Synonyms for method
Noun
  • Such approaches, known as adoptive cell therapies, are already being investigated for other cancers.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Boston Dynamics’ approach focuses on improving the connection between engineering and manufacturing, with faster component production and assembly intended to support more rapid development.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The approach allows manufacturing techniques to evolve alongside the robot’s mechanical design.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Founded in 2013 by Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel, Mansur Gavriel is known for its elevated products with a focus on material, technique and shape.
    — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Saujet developed its brand strategy and creative expression in partnership with Studio ALIFFI, founded by former chief brand officer of Neiman Marcus Nabil Aliffi.
    — Kathryn Hopkins, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026
  • This work evidences both a moral courage and brash authority on Simon’s part and speaks to the deep ethical complexity of her concerns and strategies as an artist.
    — Stephanie Wambugu, Vulture, 12 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • This methodology could underestimate El Niño’s potential impact, Bernstein said.
    — John Lippert, Chicago Tribune, 14 Oct. 2026
  • The company said that, as long as Varda and its customers have access to microgravity, the shipping methodology — much like shipping on Earth — should not matter, and Varda aims to make the experience that seamless for its customers.
    — Elizabeth Howell, Space.com, 13 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • As the business has grown, Nouri’s customers increasingly look for more ways to express their personal style on their wedding day.
    — Madison Collins, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026
  • Someone who has regarded filmmaking as a mysterious occupation might begin to see a way into it.
    — Philip Martin, Arkansas Online, 13 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Rather, to live under platform capitalism is to recognize the disturbing manner in which human need has been redescribed as algorithmic entanglement.
    — Eugenie Brinkema, ARTnews.com, 17 Oct. 2026
  • After all, rural communities rely heavily on that gubmint for all manner of necessary goods, from aid to farmers to our regional hospital, itself on life support as Medicaid funding drops.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/method. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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