A1 noun Neutral #48 most common

way

/weɪ/

Frequency

Top 48

The particular method, style, or manner in which something is done or happens. It can also refer to a route or direction taken to reach a specific place.

Examples

3 of 5

Is there a better way to cook this rice?

Is there a better method to cook this rice?

The committee has identified a new way to process applications.

The committee has found a new procedure to handle applications.

That is just the way he talks to everyone.

That is simply the manner in which he speaks to everyone.

Synonyms

method manner style technique approach means

Antonyms

disorganization chaos aimlessness

Word Family

Noun

way

Adverb

midway

pathway

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Memory Tip

Remember 'W-A-Y' as 'Which Are You choosing?' to help you remember it refers to a choice of method or direction.

Quick Quiz

I really like the ___ you organized the party.

Correct!

The correct answer is: way

Examples

Is there a better way to cook this rice?

everyday

Is there a better method to cook this rice?

The committee has identified a new way to process applications.

formal

The committee has found a new procedure to handle applications.

That is just the way he talks to everyone.

informal

That is simply the manner in which he speaks to everyone.

Researchers are exploring a more efficient way to store solar energy.

academic

Researchers are investigating a more effective method for storing solar energy.

We need to find a cost-effective way to ship our products globally.

business

We must find an inexpensive method to transport our products worldwide.

Synonyms

method manner style technique approach means

Antonyms

disorganization chaos aimlessness

Word Family

Noun

way

Adverb

midway

pathway

Common Collocations

find a way to discover a method to do something

the right way the correct or proper manner

in a way to a certain extent or from one point of view

one way or another using some method even if it is not yet known

get in the way to block or prevent something from happening

Common Phrases

by the way

incidentally; used to introduce a new topic

on the way

currently traveling towards a destination

in the way

positioned so as to obstruct or hinder

Often Confused With

way vs road

A road is a physical surface for cars; a way is more often a method or a general direction.

way vs weight

Weight sounds similar but refers to how heavy an object is.

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Usage Notes

The word 'way' is highly versatile and can describe both a physical path and an abstract method. It is frequently followed by 'to' and an infinitive verb (e.g., 'a way to learn').

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Common Mistakes

Learners often mistakenly say 'the way how' (e.g., 'I like the way how he sings'). You should use 'the way' alone or 'the way that' (e.g., 'I like the way he sings').

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Memory Tip

Remember 'W-A-Y' as 'Which Are You choosing?' to help you remember it refers to a choice of method or direction.

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Word Origin

Derived from the Old English 'weg', meaning a road, path, or course of travel.

Grammar Patterns

Countable noun: 'There are many ways to solve this.' Often used in the pattern: 'in a [adjective] way'. Used with the preposition 'of' and an -ing verb: 'a way of doing things'.

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Cultural Context

In many English-speaking cultures, phrases like 'having it your way' or 'finding your own way' reflect a strong cultural value on individualism and personal choice.