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note

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noun

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as in memo
a usually brief written reminder I'll make a note to myself so I don't forget to pick up some milk on the way home

Synonyms & Similar Words

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as in letter
a message on paper from one person or group to another write a friendly note to the neighbors asking them to keep the noise down

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word note distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of note are mark, sign, symptom, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

When could mark be used to replace note?

The words mark and note can be used in similar contexts, but mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When is it sensible to use sign instead of note?

The words sign and note are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

Where would symptom be a reasonable alternative to note?

In some situations, the words symptom and note are roughly equivalent. However, symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

In what contexts can token take the place of note?

The meanings of token and note largely overlap; however, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

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 note
Verb
Buckler endorsed Radiance, noting that founder Fran Simeoni had worked at Arrow for many years before launching his own venture. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 7 June 2025 Lab directors at Northwestern noted there’s a rigorous process for procuring federal grants each submission cycle. Zareen Syed, Chicago Tribune, 7 June 2025
Noun
This latest narrative, told in organic modernist with a hint of radical notes, is much rooted in his personal living space. Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 6 June 2025 On a spicier note, a seductive square between Mars in your eighth house of mergers and Uranus in your fifth house of passion on June 15 could trigger a deep (but impromptu) emotional pull that catches you off guard. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for note
Recent Examples of Synonyms for note
Verb
  • His attorney, Michael Wales, declined to comment when contacted by telephone.
    Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 June 2025
  • Thousands of users commented how lucky the millennial was to be so loved by her parents.
    Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 June 2025
Verb
  • Wacha recorded 55 swings and 11 whiffs in his outing.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 1 June 2025
  • With two men on, Scott recorded one out in the eighth inning of the Dodgers’ 8-5 win over the Yankees on Friday.
    Gary Phillips, Hartford Courant, 1 June 2025
Verb
  • Nineteenth-century Americans did not simply notice hair’s unusual properties.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 9 June 2025
  • Build space into your schedule to notice these things.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 9 June 2025
Verb
  • This rates mention because readers of the book might be tempted to skip the many ancient names in the book, first half of the twentieth century names, along with the females.
    John Tamny, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
  • Even senior aides like Clive Alderton, also mentioned in Harry’s memoir, are unlikely to push for a personal outreach.
    Simon Perry, People.com, 3 June 2025
Verb
  • But overshadowing much of his testimony will be the Pentagon's decision to send some 4,800 troops, including 700 Marines, to Los Angeles following several days of clashes between protesters and law enforcement there.
    Anne Flaherty, ABC News, 10 June 2025
  • When Austin and Phoenix cleared the way for semiconductor expansion, billions in private investment followed.
    Ethan Karp, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
Noun
  • Justin Sullivan/Getty Images What To Know Walmart is laying off up to 106 staffers in its technology office in San Bruno, California, according to an internal memo shared with Newsweek by a Walmart spokesperson.
    Alia Shoaib, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025
  • According to an internal memo from the BOP, Joshua Smith was named Deputy Director at the BOP.
    Walter Pavlo, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
Noun
  • The Kangaroos Are Not Shoes campaigner referenced reporting by the Financial Times before receiving confirmation a letter from Mizuno on the athleticwear brand’s gradual exit from the controversial trade’s supply chain.
    Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 4 June 2025
  • During this week’s debate, several lawmakers read letters from their constituents complaining about the costs of their electric bills.
    John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 4 June 2025
Noun
  • Full of surprises, family time, performing, chilling, laughing, loving, smiling and good meaningful cries.
    Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 26 May 2025
  • This savvy sleeper responds to babies’ cries by activating its sound and motion features.
    Pamela Brill, Parents, 22 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Note.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/note. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.

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