Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of system are fashion, manner, method, mode, and way. While all these words mean "the means taken or procedure followed in achieving an end," system suggests a fully developed or carefully formulated method often emphasizing rational orderliness.

a filing system

When might fashion be a better fit than system?

While in some cases nearly identical to system, 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 system?

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

an odd manner of conducting

When would method be a good substitute for system?

The words method and system can be used in similar contexts, but method implies an orderly logical arrangement usually in steps.

effective teaching methods

When is it sensible to use mode instead of system?

The meanings of mode and system largely overlap; however, mode implies an order or course followed by custom, tradition, or personal preference.

the preferred mode of transportation

When can way be used instead of system?

The words way and system are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 system The plant makes radio-electronic equipment for combat aircraft, air defense, and electronic warfare systems. Brendan Cole, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 July 2025 Daybell also used her speaking time before she was sentenced to condemn the Arizona justice system and the conditions inside the county jail where she has been held. Miguel Torres, AZCentral.com, 26 July 2025 The Austin service involves a small fleet of about 10 to 20 Model Y vehicles equipped with the company’s latest self-driving systems. Lora Kolodny, CNBC, 26 July 2025 The suit alleged, among other things, that the company had deliberately gamed the federal student aid system. Chris Quintana, USA Today, 26 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for system
Recent Examples of Synonyms for system
Noun
  • After a successful career as a top NFL running back, McCoy earned himself a spot on FS1's network due to his unfiltered takes on football.
    Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
  • The 38-year-old host denied the allegations against her but took some time off from the network as the story made its rounds.
    Armon Sadler, VIBE.com, 15 July 2025
Noun
  • Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Chris Bailey announced an effort to create his department's new strategic plan in April.
    Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 24 July 2025
  • As Syria grapples with sectarian clashes in the south and Israeli airstrikes in Damascus, Saudi Arabia is pushing forward with plans to engage economically.
    Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 23 July 2025
Noun
  • Thanks to this straightforward method, users can smoothly navigate cross-platform interactions.
    Sara Smith, Variety, 21 July 2025
  • These methods will prolong shelf life and maintain optimal flavor and texture. Peaches and nectarines contain high levels of micronutrients, particularly vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, niacin, magnesium, and phosphorus.
    Hannah Coakley, Verywell Health, 21 July 2025
Noun
  • Neither the city's Office of Public Health and Safety nor the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department agreed to requests for interviews about the situation on Leonard Street and the city's evolving strategy for managing homeless camps.
    Jordan Smith, IndyStar, 26 July 2025
  • That may be part of Williams’ strategy, because the Citi Open does not appear to be a one-off.
    Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • Cora certainly understands this process as the deadline approaches and what Boston is capable of if chief baseball officer Craig Breslow can add reinforcements.
    Tim Crowley, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 July 2025
  • In turn, this could entice me to abandon my good approach and leap into a stupid crash diet.
    Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • The company’s Emerging Leaders Program, designed by Dr. Jenny Schultz, who heads up leadership development at Delta Defense, offers a practical blueprint for companies looking to grow future leaders through intentional, measurable development. 1.
    Julia Korn, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025
  • Like Neff’s El Mirasol in Los Angeles (once home to Orson Welles and, later, Diane Keaton), this modern hacienda features a massive great room with a vaulted open-beam ceiling that highlights the open blueprint.
    Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 16 July 2025
Noun
  • Canva Sans Variable Canva Sans Variable By this methodology, Florida stood out as the state best prepared for a recession in the near future.
    Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 July 2025
  • The chart, which Billboard introduced in 2020, ranks the most popular individual tracks around the world, using a methodology that combines sales and streaming activity.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • With its new program Streets to Home Indy, the city aims to gradually shut down camps after moving more than 300 people living in them into housing by next June.
    Jordan Smith, IndyStar, 26 July 2025
  • Nolensville Pike, Nashville Besides being home to hundreds of adorable animals, the Nashville Zoo is actively involved in research, habitat protection, breeding programs, and education initiatives.
    Diana Leyva, The Tennessean, 26 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“System.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/system. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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