means

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'means' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you're describing a way or method of accomplishing something. For example, 'The quickest way to get there means taking the highway.'.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They'll never know what it means to have a private moment to themselves an unrecorded, unanalysed thought.

The Guardian

"That means they have got to be rooted out by ground troops.

The Guardian

"I know that that this means to offer the right hand of friendship to keep the left hand free to deliver the knockout blow to break Britain apart.

The Guardian

It is a crime under the Act to send "by means of a public electronic communications network" a message or other material that is "grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character".

The Guardian - Books

There is a need to lay out more clearly than ever before what being a British Muslim means today: proud of your faith and proud of your country.

The Guardian

"I don't even know what that means".

The New York Times - Sports

This is by no means an isolated case.

The New York Times

It means that we're saving on water and energy".

The Guardian

The repeated refusal of GPs, social housing officers and social security staff to act as immigration officers also means that if more robust residence tests are to be introduced for other EU nationals then an easy and authoritative way is needed of checking how long they have been in the country and what their immigration status is.

The Guardian

It means different things to different people.

The Guardian

Nobody knows what it means".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "means", ensure the subject clearly connects to the outcome or result. Clarity is key to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "means" with plural subjects; use "mean" instead. For example, write "These changes mean progress" not "These changes means progress".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "means" is to indicate a result, consequence, or definition. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use in expressing direct connections between actions or states and their outcomes, as illustrated in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "means" is a versatile verb used to indicate consequence, purpose, or method. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts, as exemplified by the numerous real-world examples. Grammatically correct and frequently employed, "means" serves to establish clear relationships between actions, states, and their outcomes. While its function is primarily neutral, ensuring clarity is crucial. Alternatives such as "implies", "entails", and "signifies" offer nuanced variations, enriching the precision of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

entails

Focuses on logical consequence or necessary implication.

implies

Suggests a connection or consequence that is not explicitly stated.

signifies

Highlights the symbolic representation or deeper meaning.

indicates

Points out a specific fact or piece of evidence.

represents

Emphasizes the role of standing in for something else.

amounts to

Suggests a final calculation or overall result.

constitutes

Highlights the components that make up a whole.

is tantamount to

Emphasizes the equivalent effect or significance.

serves as

Focuses on the function or purpose.

functions as

Highlights the operational role or mechanism.

FAQs

How to use "means" in a sentence?

Use "means" to indicate what something signifies or results in. For example, "This decision "means progress"".

What can I say instead of "means"?

You can use alternatives like "implies", "entails", or "signifies" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "means" or "mean"?

"Means" is used with singular subjects or uncountable nouns, while "mean" is used with plural subjects. For example, "This means change" versus "These changes mean progress".

What's the difference between "means" and "implies"?

"Means" suggests a direct result or definition, while "implies" suggests a more indirect or inferred connection.