words; expression; way of saying
Refers to the manner of saying something or the choice of words. Often used in phrases like 申しようがない (there's no way to express it) or 申しようもない (indescribable).
Its beauty is beyond words.
I was angered by his rude way of speaking.
Alternate spelling using 様; less common and may be considered old-fashioned.
Compound of the verb 申す (もうす, 'to say', humble) and 様 (よう, 'way/manner'), with the す changing to し before よう. Literally 'way of saying'.