Methods: meaning, definitions and examples
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methods
[ˈmɛθədz ]
Definitions
scientific research
A way of doing something, especially a systematic or established one.
Synonyms
approach, procedure, technique.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| methods |
This word is generally used to describe established ways or strategies to accomplish a task or solve a problem, often in a scientific or technical field.
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| technique |
This word is used to describe a specific way of doing something, especially one that requires skill or expertise.
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| approach |
This term is used for a broader, more general way of dealing with something, often emphasizing a particular attitude or perspective.
|
| procedure |
Often used in formal or clinical settings, this word refers to a specific set of steps or instructions that need to be followed to complete a task.
|
Examples of usage
- Scientists are developing new methods for detecting cancer at an early stage.
- Analytical methods are used to study the chemical composition of substances.
general
A particular form of procedure for accomplishing or approaching something, especially a systematic or established one.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| methods |
When discussing a variety of specific techniques or approaches to achieve a goal. Often used in scientific, academic, or technical settings.
|
| way |
When talking about a general manner, method, or style of doing something. It is often more informal and broad in its application.
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| system |
When referring to an organized set of principles or procedures that interact to achieve a specific purpose. Often used in contexts like IT, organizational, or biological systems.
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| process |
When describing a series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular end. Commonly used in business, manufacturing, and procedural contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Teaching methods vary from school to school.
- The company is adopting new marketing methods to increase sales.
mathematics
A mathematical procedure or process.
Synonyms
algorithm, procedure, technique.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| methods |
Best used to describe general processes or strategies to achieve a goal, especially when there are multiple ways to achieve it.
|
| algorithm |
Appropriate in technical or mathematical contexts where specific step-by-step procedures are used to solve a problem.
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| technique |
Typically used to refer to a specific way of carrying out a particular task, often implying skill or expertise.
|
| procedure |
Often used to describe a formal or official way to do something, often with a fixed sequence of steps.
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Examples of usage
- Students are learning different methods to solve equations.
- The teacher explained the method for finding the area of a triangle.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'method' comes from the Greek 'methodos', meaning 'pursuit of knowledge' or 'way of doing'.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, evolving from Latin and Greek roots.
- The word signifies a systematic approach, emphasizing order and logic in actions.
Science
- In scientific research, methods are essential for ensuring experiments are repeatable and verifiable.
- The scientific method, based on observation, experimentation, and conclusion, is a classic example of a systematic approach.
- Different fields, like biology or chemistry, may use specific methods tailored to their unique questions and challenges.
Education
- Varying teaching methods helps accommodate different learning styles, ensuring all students understand complex topics.
- Project-based learning is a method where students learn by engaging in real-world projects, enhancing critical thinking skills.
- Socratic questioning is a method used in discussions to encourage deep thinking and reflection among students.
Psychology
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy uses structured methods to help individuals change unhelpful thinking patterns.
- Exposure therapy is a method in psychology where patients gradually face their fears in a controlled way.
- Mindfulness techniques, as a method, focus on being present in the moment to reduce anxiety.
Art and Literature
- There are various artistic methods, such as impressionism, where artists capture light and natural forms in unique ways.
- In literature, a method known as stream of consciousness captures a character's flowing thoughts and feelings.
- Storytelling methods, like using flashbacks, enrich narratives by providing background and depth to characters.
Translations
Translations of the word "methods" in other languages:
🇵🇹 métodos
🇮🇳 विधियाँ
🇩🇪 Methoden
🇮🇩 metode
🇺🇦 методи
🇵🇱 metody
🇯🇵 方法 (ほうほう)
🇫🇷 méthodes
🇪🇸 métodos
🇹🇷 yöntemler
🇰🇷 방법 (bangbeop)
🇸🇦 طرق (turuq)
🇨🇿 metody
🇸🇰 metódy
🇨🇳 方法 (fāngfǎ)
🇸🇮 metode
🇮🇸 aðferðir
🇰🇿 әдістер
🇬🇪 მეთოდები
🇦🇿 metodlar
🇲🇽 métodos