mean that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'mean that' is a perfectly correct and usable part of the English language.
It is used to explain the meaning or implication of what has already been said. For example: She said she was going to the store, which I mean that she will be gone for a few hours.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I mean, that is horrendous.

Independent

"I mean, that was historic".

The New York Times - Sports

I mean, that was impressive.

The New Yorker

I didn't mean that".

The Guardian

You don't mean that".

The New York Times - Sports

Did you mean that?

The Guardian - Books

Do you mean that?

The New Yorker

I mean, that was really 10….

Forbes

I mean, that happens.

Wikipedia

I mean, that is devastating.

Los Angeles Times

I mean THAT ending.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mean that", ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. Explicitly state what you are referring to, especially when the meaning isn't immediately obvious.

Common error

Avoid using "mean that" when a more precise word or phrase could better convey the intended meaning. Overusing it can make your writing sound vague and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mean that" functions as a connector, linking a statement or situation with its implication or significance. It serves to clarify or explain what something implies, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mean that" serves as a common and versatile tool for clarifying implications and ensuring clear communication. Analysis of Ludwig's examples shows its widespread use in neutral contexts like news and media, highlighting its role in explaining the significance of statements. Although grammatically sound and highly frequent, writers should be mindful of potential redundancy and consider more precise alternatives in formal settings. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, noting its function as a connector between statements and their underlying messages.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imply that

Focuses on suggesting something without explicitly stating it.

signify that

Emphasizes the symbolic meaning or importance of something.

indicate that

Highlights the role of something as a sign or signal.

suggest that

Presents something as a possibility or a hint.

entail that

Highlights the necessary consequence or result of something.

imply as much

A more concise way of saying that something suggests a particular conclusion.

is tantamount to

Implies equivalence, suggesting that something is virtually the same as something else.

connote that

Focuses on the associated or secondary meanings of something.

purport to

Suggests a claim that may or may not be true.

allude to

Refers to something indirectly or subtly.

FAQs

How can I use "mean that" in a sentence?

Use "mean that" to clarify the implication or significance of a statement. For example, "The rain stopped, which may "imply that" the game will proceed as planned."

What's a more formal alternative to "mean that"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "signify that" or "indicate that" to convey a more professional tone.

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

Yes, using "mean that" after a straightforward statement can be redundant. Only use it when further clarification or explanation is needed.

What's the difference between "imply that" and "mean that"?

"Imply that" suggests something indirectly, while "mean that" is used to explain a direct meaning or consequence. To "imply" is to suggest, while to "mean" is to directly state or clarify.