Words / A2

MEEN-ing/ˈmiːnɪŋ/

Meaning is what a word, sign, or action represents: the meaning of, a double meaning, What’s the meaning of this? Sense is a cousin (in the sense of). Mean is the verb (What do you mean?). Mean as an adjective (unkind) is different. Do not write meaning when you mean moaning, or mining.

Meaning

What a word, sign, or action represents.

Examples

• “Look up the meaning of this word in the glossary.”
• “The sign’s meaning is “no cycling on the path”.”
• “Check the meaning in a learner dictionary, not a translator only.”

Good to know

the meaning of / What’s the meaning? Verb: mean. Mix-up: mean (unkind).

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