this means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this means" can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to provide an explanation for something or to clarify a preceding statement. For example, "The company is offering a 10% discount on all items - this means that customers can save money on their purchases."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This means peace.

The New Yorker

This means everything".

The New York Times

This means less legwork.

The New York Times

This means austerity.

The Economist

"This means nothing.

The New York Times

This means "I Serve".

The New Yorker

"This means credit cards.

The New York Times - Tech

Often this means animals.

Independent

This means controlled diversity.

The New York Times - Arts

"This means escalation.

The New York Times

This means closing loopholes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this means" to clearly explain the direct consequence or implication of a statement. For example, "The deadline is extended; this means you have more time to complete the task."

Common error

Avoid using "this means" excessively in very complex sentences where the connection between ideas is already clear. Instead, try using more nuanced transitional phrases that better reflect the relationship between the clauses.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this means" functions as a connector or transitional phrase. It introduces an explanation, clarification, or consequence of a preceding statement. Ludwig AI confirms this through its examples, showing how it links ideas and provides additional context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

30%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this means" is a versatile and frequently used connector that provides clarity and explanation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and functions primarily to link ideas by introducing the consequences or implications of a given statement. While appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news and media to general writing, overuse in complex sentences should be avoided to maintain clarity. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communications, ensuring effective and clear expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

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 what is being described.

that indicates

This alternative highlights the pointing or directional aspect of meaning.

that entails

This alternative stresses the necessary inclusion or involvement of something else.

that is to say

This alternative provides a restatement or clarification of a preceding idea.

that amounts to

This alternative suggests an equivalence or total resulting from something.

in other words

This alternative offers a simpler or more direct way of expressing something.

which suggests

This alternative introduces a subtle hint or implication.

the effect is

This alternative stresses the outcome or consequence of the preceding statement.

it follows that

This alternative indicates a logical deduction or conclusion.

FAQs

How to use "this means" in a sentence?

"This means" is used to clarify or explain the direct consequence or implication of a previous statement. For example: "The budget was cut; "this means" we need to reduce expenses."

What can I say instead of "this means"?

You can use alternatives like "that implies", "that indicates", or "in other words" depending on the context.

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

"This means" is the correct form. "Mean" is the verb, and it requires the third-person singular "-s" when used with "this". "This mean" is grammatically incorrect.

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

"This means" typically indicates a direct consequence or definition, while "this implies" suggests a more subtle or indirect conclusion. For example, "The forecast predicts rain; "this means" we should take an umbrella," versus "His hesitation "this implies" he is not fully committed".