it means to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it means to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a definition or explanation of a word or phrase. For example: "Chiaroscuro is an artistic technique that combines light and shadow. It means to create bold contrasts between light and dark elements in a painting or a drawing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It means to support its efforts.

European Parliament

What It Means To Be Black Now".

The New York Times - Arts

That's what it means to choke.

The New Yorker

What it means to the ophthalmologist.

Harvard University

That's how much it means to me.

Yale University

That's what it means to run efficiently".

The New Yorker

It means to build it yourself.

The New York Times - Magazine

It means to obsess about the present.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

What does it mean to them?

The New York Times

Is it meant to be art?

Independent

What does it mean to be married?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it means to" when clarifying the purpose or definition of a concept or action. Ensure the subsequent verb accurately reflects the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "it means to" when a more direct verb would be clearer. For instance, instead of "it means to consider all options", write "it requires considering all options".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it means to" functions as a connector that introduces an explanation, definition, or purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage for clarification and definition. Many examples show how definition is given.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it means to" functions as a connector phrase used to introduce definitions, explanations, or purposes. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general explanations. While maintaining a neutral register, it provides clarity and understanding, making it a versatile tool in communication. When writing, remember to use this phrase to provide a direct explanation and avoid using it in places where a more straightforward verb will improve clarity. By understanding its function, purpose, and usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate it into your writing to convey precise meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it signifies to

Replaces "means" with "signifies", implying a deeper or more symbolic meaning.

it serves to

Focuses on the function or purpose that something fulfills.

it is intended to

Highlights the planned or designed purpose behind something.

it aims to

Similar to "intended to", but emphasizes the goal or objective.

it has the effect of

Emphasizes the consequence or outcome of an action or event.

it is defined as

Offers a formal or technical definition of a term or concept.

it represents

Suggests that something stands for or symbolizes something else.

it indicates

Implies that something is a sign or signal of something else.

it entails

Suggests that something necessarily involves or includes certain elements.

it embodies

Implies that something is a tangible or concrete expression of an abstract idea.

FAQs

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

The phrase "it means to" is used to explain or define something. For example, "For an actor, method acting "it means to" fully embody the character they are playing."

What are some alternatives to "it means to"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "it signifies to", "it implies", or "it entails" as alternatives to "it means to".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "it means to"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct to start a sentence with "it means to", especially when you are providing a definition or explanation. However, ensure the sentence structure remains clear and concise.

How does the formality of "it means to" compare to other similar phrases?

"It means to" is generally neutral in formality. More formal alternatives might include "it is defined as", while more informal options could be "it basically means".