# manner

/ˈmænɝ/ (US) · /mˈænɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/manner
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. the way something is done

noun · CEFR B1

the way that something happens or is done.

For teachers: the mode or method in which an action is performed or an event occurs.

- He spoke in a calm manner despite the stressful situation.
- The report was written in a professional manner, addressing the technical failures without assigning personal blame to the staff.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'in a ... manner'.

### 2. polite behaviour

noun · CEFR A2

polite ways of behaving in social situations.

For teachers: socially acceptable or polite conduct; etiquette.

- It is important to teach children good manners, like saying please and thank you.
- The diplomat was praised for his impeccable manners and his ability to navigate complex social protocols with ease.

Usage: Usually plural when referring to social etiquette.

### 3. personal style or bearing

noun · CEFR B2

the way a person acts, speaks, or looks to others.

For teachers: an individual's characteristic bearing, air, or outward way of behaving.

- Her relaxed manner made everyone at the party feel comfortable.
- The doctor's bedside manner was clinical and detached, which some patients found efficient while others found it cold.

Teaching tip: Commonly used in the compound 'bedside manner' to describe how a doctor treats patients.

### 4. type or kind

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary · Formal

a sort or kind of something.

For teachers: a sort, kind, or variety of something; often used in the phrase 'all manner of'.

- The shop sold all manner of beautiful old books and maps.
- The investigation uncovered all manner of corruption within the local government, ranging from petty theft to large-scale fraud.

Usage: Commonly appears in the fixed expression 'all manner of'.

## Examples

- She answered the phone in a very professional manner.
- The doctor had a calm manner that immediately made the nervous patient feel more comfortable.
- While the technical results were impressive, the aggressive manner in which the CEO presented them alienated several potential investors during the final round of funding.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.