it means that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it means that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce an explanatory statement. For example, "The phrase 'to thine own self be true' is from a work by Shakespeare. It means that one should always be true to one's own values and convictions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It means that is bounded.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

It means that is a nonnegative submartingale.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

It means that is strictly decreasing on.

Advances in Difference Equations

It means that has no solution on.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

It means that you compromise.

The New York Times

"It means that you've handcuffed yourself.

The New York Times

It means that we have time".

The New York Times

It means that they aren't impaired.

The New York Times

It means that we make mistakes.

The New York Times - Books

It means that everything is terribly healthy.

The New Yorker

But it means that investment will slump.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it means that" to clearly introduce an explanation or interpretation of a preceding statement. Ensure the explanation directly relates to what was previously mentioned.

Common error

Avoid using "it means that" before stating something that is already self-evident from the context. This can make your writing seem verbose and unnecessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it means that" functions as an explanatory connector, linking a statement to its explanation or interpretation. It clearly indicates that what follows is the meaning or consequence of what was previously stated. This usage is supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it means that" is a highly versatile and frequently used expression, serving as an explanatory connector across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It functions to clarify meaning and provide additional understanding, making it suitable for neutral registers. While it's valuable for avoiding ambiguity, it should be used judiciously to avoid redundancy. Alternatives like "that implies" or "which indicates" can offer nuanced ways to express similar relationships. Remember to directly relate your explanation to the proceeding statement to use "it means that" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what this means is

This alternative is used for emphasis, clarifying the exact meaning of a statement.

that implies

This alternative focuses on the logical consequence or implication of a statement.

that signifies

This alternative emphasizes the symbolic or indicative nature of a fact or event.

which indicates

This alternative is used to point out evidence or a sign that suggests something.

this suggests that

This alternative conveys a hint or a possibility based on the preceding information.

it follows that

This alternative highlights a logical deduction or conclusion.

that entails

This alternative implies a necessary consequence or condition.

this implies

A more concise way to express that something suggests a particular outcome or consequence.

in other words

This alternative is used to rephrase a statement in a simpler or clearer manner.

put differently

This alternative introduces a rephrasing for better understanding or clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "it means that" in a sentence?

Use "it means that" to introduce an explanation or interpretation of something. For example, "The data showed a significant increase; it means that more resources are needed."

What are some alternatives to "it means that"?

You can use alternatives like "that implies", "which indicates", or "this suggests that" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "it means that" after a very clear statement?

Yes, using "it means that" after a statement that is already perfectly clear can be redundant and make your writing less concise. Consider if the explanation is truly needed.

What's the difference between "it means that" and "this implies that"?

"It means that" is a more direct explanation, while "this implies that" suggests a logical consequence or inference. The choice depends on whether you're explaining or inferring.