this word means

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "this word means" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce the definition of a word. For example: "This word means 'a state of being content and satisfied with life.'".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Shouganai Language: Japanese Meaning: Connected to the idea of fate, this word means that something can't be helped, so why worry about it?

Huffington Post

This word means a lot to me.

The New York Times

This word means "confused misunderstanding or disagreement," not controversy or scandal.

The New York Times

In Norwegian, this word means "to sit outside on a sunny day enjoying a beer".

The Guardian - Opinion

He was an extremely thoughtful and — I don't know if this word means anything anymore — a polite man.

The New York Times

A close analysis of the text, with its accompanying figures, reveals that this word means the slope of an incline essential knowledge for huge construction projects such as the pyramids.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

The first ones did not quite seize what this word meant — we know it already [we know it now].

The New Yorker

I phone the minister of health and ask her what does this word mean and she explains".

The New York Times

I didn't know what this word meant, but, considering the tone of its delivery, I knew it couldn't be a good thing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Originally this word meant to be decorated or covered with chintz, a calico print from India, or suggestive of a pattern in chintz.

The Guardian - Books

I wondered what this word meant to this spunky middle-aged couple.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When defining a term, ensure the definition is clear, concise, and appropriate for your audience. Avoid circular definitions or overly technical language.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the primary meaning of a word is its emotional or cultural association. Clarify the core definition before exploring any nuanced connotations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this word means" functions as an introductory phrase used to define or explain the meaning of a specific term. It sets up a direct equivalence between the word and its definition. This aligns with Ludwig's AI assessment of grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this word means" is a standard and grammatically sound way to introduce a definition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. Appearing frequently in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, it serves the straightforward purpose of clarifying a term's meaning. While variations like "the meaning of this word is" or "this word signifies" exist, "this word means" remains a versatile and widely understood option.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the meaning of this word is

Rephrases the query to emphasize the 'meaning' as the subject.

the definition of this word is

Explicitly refers to the 'definition' of the word.

this word is defined as

Uses a passive construction to define the word.

this word signifies

Substitutes "means" with "signifies", adding a slightly more formal tone.

this word denotes

Replaces "means" with "denotes", which is a more precise and technical term.

by this word, we understand

Offers a more elaborate way of explaining the meaning, shifting the focus to interpretation.

in other words, this word

Introduces a simplified explanation of the word's meaning.

this word translates to

Implies a cross-linguistic explanation, useful when discussing foreign words.

this word implies

Focuses on the connotations and subtle meanings of the word.

this word represents

Suggests that the word embodies or symbolizes something.

FAQs

How can I use "this word means" in a sentence?

Use "this word means" to introduce the definition of a specific term. For example, "'Ubiquitous' is used to describe something that appears to be present everywhere".

What are some alternatives to "this word means"?

You can use alternatives like "the meaning of this word is", "this word signifies", or "this word denotes" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "this word mean" instead of "this word means"?

No, "this word means" is grammatically correct because "word" is singular, requiring the third-person singular verb form "means". "This word mean" is incorrect.

What's the difference between using "this word means" and "this word is defined as"?

Both phrases are used to provide a definition, but "this word is defined as" ("this word is defined as") is more formal and often used in academic or technical contexts. "This word means" is generally suitable for broader audiences.