Words / A2

MEEN/miːn/

Ask What does this word mean? when you need a definition. Mean also covers intention: I didn’t mean to interrupt. Meaning is the noun. As an adjective, mean can be “unkind,” which surprises learners. Signify is formal; mean is the everyday verb.

Meaning

To have a particular meaning, or to intend.

Examples

• “What does this word mean?”
• “What do you mean by that?”
• “She meant to call you yesterday.”

Good to know

mean = have a meaning, or intend. Noun: meaning. Adjective mean = unkind.

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