manner
- 01 B1 Intermediate
the way that something happens or is done.
the mode or method in which an action is performed or an event occurs.
Simple“He spoke in a calm manner despite the stressful situation.”
In context“The report was written in a professional manner, addressing the technical failures without assigning personal blame to the staff.”
UsageOften used in the phrase 'in a ... manner'.
- 02 A2 Elementary
polite ways of behaving in social situations.
socially acceptable or polite conduct; etiquette.
Simple“It is important to teach children good manners, like saying please and thank you.”
In context“The diplomat was praised for his impeccable manners and his ability to navigate complex social protocols with ease.”
UsageUsually plural when referring to social etiquette.
PitfallHe has a good manner. He has good manners.When referring to polite social behaviour in general, use the plural form 'manners'.
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
the way a person acts, speaks, or looks to others.
an individual's characteristic bearing, air, or outward way of behaving.
Simple“Her relaxed manner made everyone at the party feel comfortable.”
In context“The doctor's bedside manner was clinical and detached, which some patients found efficient while others found it cold.”
Teacher's tipCommonly used in the compound 'bedside manner' to describe how a doctor treats patients.
- 04 C1 Advanced
a sort or kind of something.
a sort, kind, or variety of something; often used in the phrase 'all manner of'.
Simple“The shop sold all manner of beautiful old books and maps.”
In context“The investigation uncovered all manner of corruption within the local government, ranging from petty theft to large-scale fraud.”
UsageCommonly appears in the fixed expression 'all manner of'.
Usage analogous manner · appropriate manner · consistent manner
From Middle English manere, maner, from Anglo-Norman manere, from Old French maniere, from Vulgar Latin *manāria, from feminine of Latin manuarius (“belonging to the hand”), from manus (“hand”). Compare French manière, Italian mannaia (“ax, axe”), Portuguese maneira and maneiro (“handy, portable”), Romanian mâner (“handle”), and Spanish manera.
man + -er.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.