meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "meaning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you need to refer to the significance of something. For example, "Her words had a deep meaning that touched my heart."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is why we will propose a 'double lock', meaning that exit from the European Union would only be possible if all UK nations agreed.

The Guardian

Of course, this is exactly the way the tax code works now: tax rates rise at certain income thresholds, meaning that when you get to a certain income level, the government takes more of every dollar you earn.

The Economist

Meaning what?

The New York Times

Far more fossil fuels – about 2650GT – are held by state-owned companies, meaning that in total there are four to five times more fossil fuels in existing reserves than can be safely burned.

The Guardian

There is disagreement over the distance that the positive effects of clustering actually extend to, however, meaning that the generation of synergetic 'cluster effects' (as they are commonly understood) between firms in Manchester and firms in Newcastle for example could prove difficult.

The Guardian

Macdonald was able to make his decisions behind closed doors, meaning there was no accountability, Ipp said.

The Guardian

Because the award is non-consolidated it will not count towards pension entitlements or shift pay and will be wiped away at the end of March 2016, meaning wages will go back to their April 2013 level.

The Guardian

The rents get even more expensive when the streets are pedestrianised, meaning you end up with expensive boutiques that are of no use to ordinary people.

The Guardian

In all the lexicography of actor-speak, no single word is used so often or possesses such nuance of meaning.

The Guardian

The ONS' Wealth and Assets survey is a longitudinal survey, meaning that respondents are interviewed more than once, with around a two year interval in the case of this study.

The Guardian

The Cupping Room is one of the finest examples of local caffeine culture: it offers several espresso blends but just one type of "milk-based espresso drink" – meaning those in search of coffee adulterated with chocolate or other additives will need to look elsewhere.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "meaning", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to the definition, significance, or intention behind something. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "meaning" in excessively abstract or philosophical contexts where a more concrete term like "significance" or "purpose" would provide greater clarity. Using a more specific term enhances understanding.

Linguistic Context

The word "meaning" primarily functions as a noun, denoting the symbolic value, significance, or intent behind something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show its use in various contexts, such as the meaning of life or the meaning of a word.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "meaning" is a versatile noun that refers to the significance, definition, or purpose behind something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used across diverse contexts. While generally neutral in register, the choice of more specific terms may be necessary in formal or scientific writing. Ludwig's examples show it frequently appears in news and media, reflecting its widespread use in explaining and interpreting events and concepts. When using "meaning", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to the definition, significance, or intention behind something. Be specific to avoid ambiguity and enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significance

Focuses on the importance or consequence of something, similar to "meaning".

sense

Refers to the understanding or interpretation of something, close to "meaning".

interpretation

Highlights the act of explaining or understanding something's "meaning".

definition

Emphasizes the precise explanation of a word, phrase, or concept's "meaning".

implication

Suggests the indirect "meaning" or consequence of something.

intent

Focuses on the purpose or "meaning" behind an action or statement.

essence

Captures the fundamental nature or core "meaning" of something.

value

Highlights the importance or worth associated with the "meaning" of something.

purpose

Refers to the reason for which something exists or is done, overlapping with "meaning".

denotation

Focuses on the literal or explicit "meaning" of a term.

FAQs

How can I use "meaning" in a sentence?

You can use "meaning" to refer to the significance, definition, or purpose of something. For example, "The "meaning of life" is a question pondered by many" or "The word's "definition" provides its meaning".

What are some alternatives to the word "meaning"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "significance", "sense", "interpretation", or "definition". Choose the word that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the meaning of the meaning"?

While grammatically correct, saying "the meaning of the meaning" can be redundant. Consider rephrasing to something more direct, such as "the significance of the definition" or "the essence of its meaning", to avoid unnecessary repetition.

What's the difference between "meaning" and "purpose"?

"Meaning" refers to the significance or interpretation of something, while "purpose" refers to the reason for which something exists or is done. The "purpose of life", for example, seeks the reason we exist, whereas the meaning of life concerns its interpretation.