Phrasal Verb: Mean

In English, mean connects a subject to a definition. It acts like an equal sign in math. For example, A means B. When you use it as a phrasal verb like mean by, it gets even better. This helps you ask for specific details. You are asking for the logic behind a word. It is like asking someone to open a secret box. You want to see what is inside their head. It works with people and with objects. You can ask about a sign on the road. You can ask about a friend's strange joke. It is the ultimate clarification tool. Yes, even native speakers use this every single day!

1. 1Using mean is quite straightforward. Just follow these simple steps:
2. 2For definitions: [Subject] + means + [Definition]. Example: Red means stop.
3. 3For questions: What does + [Subject] + mean? Example: What does 'exit' mean?
4. 4For clarifying with mean by: What do you mean by + [Word/Phrase]?
5. 5For intentions: [Subject] + mean to + [Verb]. Example: I mean to help you.
6. 6For negatives: [Subject] + don't/doesn't mean to. Example: I didn't mean to be late.
7. 7Think of it like building with Lego blocks. You just snap the pieces together. Don't worry about complex tenses yet. Stick to the present and simple past.

Use mean when you are at a restaurant. If you see a weird dish name, ask the waiter. What does this word mean? Use it when you are asking for directions. If someone says 'turn at the fork', you might be confused. Ask them: What do you mean by 'fork'? Use it when you make a mistake. If you step on someone's foot, say: I didn't mean to do that! It shows you are polite. It shows you care about the conversation. It is perfect for job interviews too. If an interviewer uses a big word, just ask! It shows you are listening carefully. It is like a grammar safety net.

Do not use mean for physical actions you are doing right now. Don't say I am meaning to eat. Instead, say I mean to eat or I want to eat. Also, do not use it to describe your feelings about a person. If you like someone, don't say I mean you. That sounds very confusing! Use mean for definitions and intentions only. It is not a substitute for think or feel. Think of it like a specialized tool. You wouldn't use a hammer to eat soup, right? Use mean for its specific job.

Many people forget the s in the third person. Remember: He means, She means, It means. Don't say It mean stop. That is a common trap! Another mistake is using mean instead of signify. Keep it simple. Also, watch out for the question format. People often say What means this? This is wrong. You must say What does this mean? It is like a dance. You need the does to keep the rhythm. Don't worry, even advanced learners trip over this sometimes. Just keep practicing the does and do patterns.

Let's compare mean with say. Say is just the sound or words. Mean is the message inside. If I say Hello, I mean I am happy to see you. See the difference? One is the surface. The other is the heart. Also, compare mean to with want to. Want to is a desire. Mean to is an intention or a plan. You might want to sleep, but you mean to work. It is a subtle shift. Think of mean as the deeper layer of communication. It adds flavor and clarity to your basic sentences.