means

"Means" is a fascinating word because it works as both a verb and a noun, and the noun form has some interesting uses. It covers 4 key senses that you will encounter very often in everyday English.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

What does the word 'ambiguous' mean?

A red traffic light means you must stop.

2verbto intend

When you 'mean' to do something, you planned or intended to do it. It tells us about your purpose or goal behind an action.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

He meant to call you, but he forgot.

Did you mean to send that email to everyone?

As a noun, 'means' refers to a way or method you use to achieve something. Notice that this form looks plural but can refer to a single method. You will often see the phrase 'a means to an end', which describes something you do not enjoy but use to reach a goal.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

They used every available means to find a solution.

When people talk about someone's 'means', they are referring to how much money or wealth that person has. If someone 'lives beyond their means', they spend more money than they earn.

everyday language / finance · Modern, widely used

You should try to live within your means and avoid debt.