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A1 verb #108 가장 일반적인 12분 분량

mean

상위 108

At the A1 level, 'mean' is a fundamental tool for survival and basic learning. It is primarily used to ask for the definitions of words or the significance of signs. For example, a student might ask, 'What does "apple" mean?' or 'What does this red sign mean?'. At this stage, the focus is on simple subject-verb-object structures. The learner uses 'mean' to bridge the gap between their native language and English. It is almost always used in the present simple tense. The concept of 'meaning' is literal and direct. A1 learners also begin to use 'mean' to express simple intentions, such as 'I mean to help,' though this is less common than the definition-seeking usage. The goal is to understand that 'mean' connects a symbol to a concept. It is one of the first verbs learned because it allows the student to acquire more vocabulary by asking questions. Without 'mean', a beginner cannot easily navigate an English-speaking environment or clarify misunderstandings. It is the 'Swiss Army knife' of early language acquisition, used to resolve confusion and build a basic conceptual map of the new language. Teachers emphasize the 'What does... mean?' question pattern as a core classroom phrase.

As learners progress to A2, they start using 'mean' in more social and descriptive ways. While still using it for definitions, they begin to express intentions and explain simple consequences. An A2 learner might say, 'I didn't mean to break the glass,' using the past simple to apologize for an accident. This shows an understanding of 'mean' as a way to describe purpose. They also use it to describe the importance of things in their lives, such as 'My family means everything to me.' This adds an emotional dimension to their vocabulary. Grammatically, they become more comfortable with the 'mean + to + infinitive' structure for plans. They also start to recognize 'mean' as a filler word in spoken English, though they may not use it fluently themselves yet. The A2 level involves moving beyond the dictionary and into the world of human interaction. They understand that 'mean' can describe a result, like 'Rain means no football today.' This shows a developing ability to link cause and effect using simple verbs. The learner is beginning to see that 'mean' is not just about words, but about the relationships between events and feelings.

At the B1 level, the use of 'mean' becomes more nuanced and versatile. Learners use it to clarify complex thoughts and to provide more detailed explanations. They are comfortable with the 'mean + -ing' structure to describe consequences, such as 'Moving to a new city means finding a new job.' This shows a grasp of more complex gerund structures. B1 students also use 'mean' to qualify their statements, often using the phrase 'I mean' to correct themselves or add detail: 'It's a good film—I mean, the acting is great even if the story is slow.' This is a sign of increasing conversational fluency. They also begin to understand and use common idioms and phrasal combinations involving 'mean', such as 'mean business' or 'mean well'. The focus at this level is on using 'mean' to navigate more sophisticated social and professional situations. They can explain the implications of a decision or the underlying intent behind a complex action. The verb becomes a tool for negotiation and deeper expression. They also start to distinguish between 'mean' and more formal synonyms like 'intend' or 'signify', choosing the appropriate word for the context.

By the B2 level, learners use 'mean' with high precision and can handle its most abstract applications. They understand the difference between denotation and connotation, even if they don't always use those specific terms. They can discuss the 'meaning of life' or the 'meaning behind a poem,' using the verb to explore philosophical or artistic concepts. In professional settings, they use 'mean' to describe logical implications and strategic outcomes: 'This market trend means we need to pivot our strategy.' They are adept at using 'I mean' as a discourse marker to manage the flow of conversation, using it to signal a change in topic, a clarification, or an emphasis. Their use of 'mean' is natural and varies according to the register. They can also use the passive voice or more complex structures like 'It was meant to be' to describe fate or intended purposes. At B2, 'mean' is no longer just a word for definitions; it is a sophisticated instrument for articulating complex relationships, intentions, and interpretations. They can also identify when 'mean' is being used sarcastically or ironically in native speech.

At the C1 level, the learner's use of 'mean' is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker. they use it to convey subtle shades of meaning and to navigate highly complex linguistic landscapes. They can use 'mean' to discuss the nuances of semiotics—how signs and symbols function in society. They are comfortable with the verb in all its forms, including its use in legal, academic, and literary contexts. A C1 learner might analyze how a specific word 'means' different things to different demographic groups, showing a deep cultural and sociological understanding. They use 'mean' to construct sophisticated arguments, often using it to link premises to conclusions in a way that feels effortless. They also have a mastery of the various idiomatic and metaphorical uses of the word. They can use 'mean' to express frustration, sincerity, or profound insight. For example, they might say, 'I don't mean to sound pedantic, but...' to introduce a technical correction gracefully. Their understanding of 'mean' includes its historical evolution and its relationship to other Germanic and Romance roots. At this level, the word is a flexible tool for high-level cognitive tasks and nuanced social maneuvering.

C2 proficiency involves a complete and effortless mastery of 'mean' in every possible context, including the most obscure and specialized. A C2 speaker can engage in deep philosophical debates about the nature of meaning itself—discussing theories from Wittgenstein or Saussure with ease. They can use 'mean' to deconstruct texts, identifying hidden intentions and subtexts that others might miss. Their use of the word in creative writing is masterful, using it to create double meanings, puns, and complex metaphors. They understand the full range of the word's register, from the most informal slang to the most archaic legal terminology. A C2 speaker might use 'mean' to describe the existential significance of a moment or the structural implications of a global event. They are also fully aware of the word's phonetic and rhythmic properties, using it effectively in poetry or public speaking. For a C2 learner, 'mean' is not just a verb; it is a fundamental concept through which they view and describe the world. They can explain the most subtle differences between 'mean', 'signify', 'denote', 'portend', and 'augur', and they always choose the perfect word for the specific nuance they wish to convey.

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

mean 30초 만에

The verb 'mean' is primarily used to define words, symbols, or signs, making it essential for language learners and general communication.
It expresses intention or purpose, often used in apologies ('I didn't mean to') or to state future plans and goals.
It describes the emotional or practical importance of something, indicating how much value a person or object holds for someone.
It functions as a logical connector to show consequences or results, explaining how one event leads to another in various contexts.

The verb mean is one of the most fundamental pillars of the English language, acting as the primary tool for decoding reality and expressing intention. At its most basic level, used frequently by beginners (CEFR A1), it functions as a linguistic bridge. When you encounter a word, a sign, or a gesture that you do not understand, mean is the key that unlocks the door to comprehension. It connects a symbol to its actual definition or concept. For instance, if you see a red light while driving, that light means you must stop. In this context, the verb is synonymous with 'signify' or 'represent'. It is the word we use to ask for translations or explanations, making it indispensable for any learner of a new language.

Semantic Signification: This is the use of 'mean' to define symbols. It answers the question 'What is the definition of this?' or 'What does this represent?'. It is purely informational and objective.

In English, the word 'ocean' means a very large area of sea.

Beyond simple definitions, mean transitions into the realm of human psychology and intention. When we say 'I didn't mean to break the vase,' we are talking about our internal purpose or lack thereof. Here, the verb describes the alignment between our thoughts and our actions. It is often followed by an infinitive verb (to + verb). This usage is crucial for social interactions, as it allows us to clarify our motives, apologize for accidents, or emphasize our seriousness. If someone says 'I mean it!', they are asserting that their words are not a joke or an exaggeration; they are signaling deep sincerity and commitment to the statement they just made.

Intentionality: This refers to the purpose behind an action. It distinguishes between what happened by accident and what was done on purpose.

I mean to finish this project by Friday evening.

Furthermore, mean carries a heavy emotional weight when used to describe the importance of something or someone. To say 'You mean so much to me' is to assign a high value or significance to a relationship. In this sense, the verb moves away from logic and into the heart. It describes the impact an object, person, or event has on an individual's life. It can also be used to describe consequences or logical outcomes. For example, 'Lowering prices means we will sell more products.' In this context, it functions similarly to 'results in' or 'leads to'. This versatility—from the dictionary definition of a word to the deepest feelings of the human soul—is what makes mean a linguistic powerhouse.

Consequential Logic: Used to show that one event or fact logically leads to another. It is common in business and scientific reasoning.

Winning this contract means the company can hire more staff.

Using the verb mean correctly requires an understanding of its various grammatical structures. The most common structure is Subject + mean + Noun/Phrase. This is used for definitions. For example, 'The word "exit" means a way out.' Notice that the verb agrees with the subject: 'This means' (singular) versus 'These words mean' (plural). In questions, we use the auxiliary verb 'do' or 'does'. A very common mistake for learners is saying 'What means this word?' instead of the correct 'What does this word mean?'. Always remember to use 'does' for singular subjects in the present tense.

Definition Pattern: [Subject] + mean(s) + [Definition/Noun]. Used to explain the significance of a term or symbol.

What does the symbol on the dashboard mean?

When expressing intention, the structure changes to Subject + mean + to + Infinitive. This is used to talk about plans or purposes. 'I mean to call him' implies a deliberate intention. If you want to talk about an action that was not intended, you use the negative: 'I didn't mean to wake you up.' This is a vital phrase for social etiquette and resolving misunderstandings. It is also important to note the difference between 'mean to do' (intention) and 'mean doing' (consequence). For example, 'Taking this job means moving to London.' In this case, 'moving' is a gerund representing the result of the action, not a deliberate plan.

Intention Pattern: [Subject] + mean + to + [Verb]. Used to express what someone intends or plans to do.

She didn't mean to be rude; she was just in a hurry.

Another powerful structure is Subject + mean + that-clause. This is used to explain the implications of a situation. 'The dark clouds mean that it is going to rain.' Here, the verb acts as an indicator of a future event or a hidden truth. In spoken English, the word 'that' is often omitted: 'The silence means he's angry.' Finally, when using 'mean' to describe importance, we often use the structure Subject + mean + [Importance] + to + [Person]. For example, 'This trophy means everything to the team.' This emphasizes the emotional value placed on an object or achievement. Mastery of these patterns allows for precise communication in both formal and informal settings.

Importance Pattern: [Subject] + mean + [Amount/Value] + to + [Someone]. Used to describe emotional significance.

Your support means a lot to me during this difficult time.

The verb mean is ubiquitous, appearing in almost every facet of daily life, from academic textbooks to pop songs. In a classroom or educational setting, you will hear it constantly as teachers explain new concepts. 'Photosynthesis means the process by which plants make food.' It is the primary verb for instruction and clarification. If you are watching a documentary or reading a news article, you might encounter it in a more analytical context, where it is used to interpret data or events. 'The rise in interest rates means that borrowing will become more expensive.' In these professional environments, mean is a tool for logical deduction and forecasting.

Academic Context: Used to define technical terms, explain theories, and describe the implications of research findings.

In physics, 'velocity' means speed in a specific direction.

In the world of entertainment, specifically in music and movies, mean is often used to express deep emotion or conflict. Think of the countless songs where a singer asks, 'What do you mean?' or declares, 'You mean the world to me.' It is a staple of romantic dialogue and dramatic confrontations. In movies, a character might say, 'I mean business,' to show they are serious and potentially dangerous. This usage highlights the word's ability to convey intensity and personal commitment. It is also a very common 'filler' word in casual conversation. People often start sentences with 'I mean...' to clarify a previous statement or to buy time while they think of what to say next.

Conversational Filler: Used to clarify, correct, or emphasize a point during spontaneous speech. It often doesn't add literal meaning but helps the flow of talk.

I mean, it's not that I don't like the car, it's just too expensive.

Social media and digital communication are also filled with mean. When someone posts a meme or a cryptic message, others might comment, 'What does this mean?' with a confused emoji. In the tech world, developers use the word when discussing code or system requirements: 'This error message means the server is down.' Whether you are reading a legal contract where 'mean' is used to define terms precisely, or chatting with a friend about your weekend plans, this verb is the glue that holds communication together. It is the fundamental unit of understanding in the English-speaking world.

Technical/Digital Context: Used to interpret error codes, explain software functionality, or clarify the intent behind digital content.

A 404 error means the webpage could not be found.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with the verb mean involves the word order in questions. Because many languages translate 'What does this mean?' using a different structure, students often say 'What means this?' or 'What this means?'. In English, questions in the present simple tense require the auxiliary verb 'do' or 'does'. Therefore, the correct form is always 'What does [subject] mean?'. Another common mistake is forgetting the 's' for third-person singular subjects. Remember: 'It means,' 'He means,' but 'They mean.' Consistency in subject-verb agreement is key to sounding natural.

Question Structure Error: Incorrect: 'What means this word?' | Correct: 'What does this word mean?' Always use the auxiliary 'does' for questions.

Incorrect: What means 'procrastinate'? | Correct: What does 'procrastinate' mean?

Confusion between mean and intend is another area where mistakes occur. While they are often synonymous, 'mean' is much more common in casual speech, while 'intend' is more formal. However, a specific mistake happens with the preposition. You 'mean to do' something, but you don't 'mean for doing' something. For example, 'I mean to help you' is correct. Using 'mean' with a gerund (-ing) changes the meaning to 'involve' or 'result in'. If you say 'Helping you means spending my weekend,' it implies the consequence of helping, not necessarily your initial intention. Mixing these up can lead to significant misunderstandings about your motives.

Infinitive vs. Gerund: 'Mean to [verb]' = Intention. 'Mean [verb]-ing' = Consequence. Using the wrong one changes the logic of your sentence.

I mean to buy a gift (I plan to). Buying a gift means spending money (it results in spending).

Finally, learners sometimes confuse the verb mean with the adjective mean (which means unkind or cruel). While they are spelled the same (homonyms), they function very differently. You cannot say 'He is meaning to me' to say he is unkind; you must say 'He is mean to me.' Conversely, you cannot use the adjective form to ask for a definition. Another subtle mistake is using 'mean' when 'signify' or 'indicate' would be more appropriate in highly formal or scientific writing. While 'mean' is correct, it can sometimes feel too informal for a PhD thesis or a legal brief. Understanding the register and the specific grammatical patterns will help you avoid these pitfalls.

Verb vs. Adjective Confusion: The verb describes significance or intent. The adjective describes a person's character. Do not mix their grammatical roles.

He is mean (Adjective: unkind). He means well (Verb: has good intentions).

While mean is a versatile and common verb, there are many synonyms that can provide more precision depending on the context. When you are talking about the definition of a word or a symbol, alternatives like signify, denote, or represent are excellent choices, especially in formal or academic writing. Denote is particularly useful in linguistics and logic to refer to the literal, primary meaning of a word, whereas connote refers to the secondary, emotional associations. For example, 'The word "home" denotes a place where one lives, but it connotes warmth and safety.' Using these specific terms can greatly enhance the clarity of your analysis.

Signify vs. Mean: 'Signify' is more formal and often used when discussing symbols, signs, or historical importance. 'Mean' is more general and common.

The dove signifies peace in many cultures.

When mean is used to express intention, words like intend, aim, or purpose can be used as alternatives. Intend is the most direct synonym and is slightly more formal. Aim often implies a specific goal or target you are working toward. For instance, 'We aim to increase sales by ten percent.' If you are talking about what someone is trying to suggest without saying it directly, the verb imply is the perfect choice. If you are the person receiving the message and you are trying to figure out that hidden meaning, you are inferring. Understanding the difference between 'implying' (the speaker) and 'inferring' (the listener) is a hallmark of advanced English proficiency.

Intend vs. Mean: 'Intend' focuses on the plan or goal. 'Mean' is broader and can include accidental outcomes or emotional significance.

He intends to start his own business next year.

In contexts where mean refers to consequences or results, you can use entail, involve, or lead to. Entail is a sophisticated word often used in legal or logical contexts to describe a necessary consequence. 'The renovation will entail a lot of noise and dust.' Involve is a softer alternative, suggesting that something is a part of a process. Finally, when discussing the importance of something, you might use matter. Instead of saying 'This means a lot to me,' you could say 'This matters a lot to me.' While the meaning is nearly identical, 'matter' focuses more on the inherent value of the thing itself. By expanding your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can tailor your language to any situation.

Entail vs. Mean: 'Entail' suggests a necessary or logical requirement. 'Mean' is more general and can describe any kind of result.

The new policy entails stricter security checks for everyone.

How Formal Is It?

격식체

중립

비격식체

Child friendly

속어

재미있는 사실

The verb 'mean' (to signify) and the adjective 'mean' (unkind) actually come from different roots, even though they look the same today. The adjective comes from an Old English word meaning 'common' or 'low-class'.

발음 가이드

UK /miːn/

US /min/

Single syllable word; the stress is on the entire word.

라임이 맞는 단어

bean clean green keen lean seen teen screen queen scene

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing it like 'men' (short 'e' sound).
Adding an extra vowel sound at the end (e.g., 'meen-uh').
Failing to lengthen the 'ee' sound, making it sound like 'min'.
Nasalizing the vowel too much because of the surrounding 'm' and 'n'.
Pronouncing the 'n' too softly so it disappears.

난이도

독해 1/5

Very easy to recognize in text as it is a high-frequency word.

쓰기 2/5

Requires care with question word order and third-person 's'.

말하기 2/5

Common as a filler, but learners must avoid overusing it.

듣기 1/5

Easy to hear, though it can be confused with the adjective 'mean'.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

say word want think sign

다음에 배울 것

intend signify imply suggest consequence

고급

denotation connotation semiotics intentionality entailment

알아야 할 문법

Present Simple Questions

What does it mean? (Not: What it means?)

Mean + Infinitive

I mean to go. (Intention)

Mean + Gerund

It means going. (Consequence)

Third Person Singular

He means well. (Not: He mean well.)

Mean + That-Clause

It means that we are late.

수준별 예문

What does this word mean?

Asking for a definition.

Present simple question with 'does'.

The red light means stop.

Explaining a sign.

Third-person singular 'means'.

I mean to help you.

Expressing a simple intention.

Mean + to + infinitive.

Does this sign mean 'exit'?

Confirming a meaning.

Question form.

Yellow means 'be careful'.

Explaining a color's meaning.

Subject + mean + definition.

What does 'hello' mean in your language?

Asking for translation.

Question with prepositional phrase.

I don't mean to be late.

Expressing intention (negative).

Negative present simple.

This means we are finished.

Stating a result.

Pronoun 'this' as subject.

I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.

Apologizing for an accident.

Past simple negative.

My dog means a lot to me.

Expressing importance.

Mean + a lot + to + person.

Does 'cheap' mean the same as 'inexpensive'?

Comparing meanings.

Comparison in a question.

I mean to travel to Italy next summer.

Stating a future plan.

Mean + to + infinitive for plans.

A smile usually means someone is happy.

Interpreting a gesture.

Adverb 'usually' with 'means'.

This gift means so much to her.

Importance to someone else.

Intensifier 'so much'.

I mean, it's not a bad idea.

Using 'I mean' as a filler.

Parenthetical 'I mean'.

What did he mean by that comment?

Asking about past intent.

Past simple question.

Working here means having to wake up early.

Describing a consequence.

Gerund as subject and after 'means'.

I mean what I say.

Asserting sincerity.

Relative clause 'what I say'.

He means well, even if he makes mistakes.

Describing good intentions.

Phrase 'mean well'.

The new law means that we must pay more tax.

Explaining a legal implication.

Mean + that-clause.

I didn't mean for this to happen.

Disclaiming responsibility.

Mean + for + object + to + infinitive.

She really means business this time.

Describing seriousness.

Idiom 'mean business'.

By 'soon', I mean within the next hour.

Clarifying a specific term.

Prepositional phrase 'By... I mean'.

It was meant to be a surprise.

Describing an intended purpose.

Passive voice 'was meant to be'.

The silence in the room meant that the news was bad.

Interpreting a situation.

Past tense with that-clause.

I didn't mean to imply that you were wrong.

Clarifying a subtle suggestion.

Mean + to + imply.

This promotion means a great deal to his career.

Significant impact.

Phrase 'means a great deal'.

I mean, if you think about it, it's actually logical.

Clarifying a complex point.

Conversational 'I mean' with conditional.

He was never meant to be a doctor.

Talking about destiny or suitability.

Passive voice with 'never'.

What is this poem meant to represent?

Asking about artistic intent.

Passive question form.

The failure of the project means starting from scratch.

Consequence of failure.

Mean + gerund phrase.

I mean it when I say I'm proud of you.

Emphasizing sincerity.

Mean + it + when-clause.

The author's use of metaphor means more than it appears.

Analyzing literary depth.

Mean + comparative 'more than'.

I don't mean to sound ungrateful, but I can't accept this.

Softening a difficult statement.

Mean + to + sound + adjective.

His silence was meant as a form of protest.

Interpreting intentional non-action.

Passive 'was meant as'.

Does the end always mean the means are justified?

Philosophical inquiry.

Playing with the noun 'means' and verb 'mean'.

I mean to say that the data is inconclusive, not incorrect.

Precise academic clarification.

Mean + to + say + that-clause.

The painting was meant to evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Describing artistic purpose.

Passive + infinitive 'to evoke'.

This decision means an end to our partnership.

Stating a final consequence.

Mean + noun phrase 'an end to'.

I mean, who are we to judge their choices?

Rhetorical clarification.

Conversational 'I mean' with rhetorical question.

The semiotic shift means that the symbol has lost its original power.

Advanced linguistic analysis.

Complex subject with that-clause.

I didn't mean to suggest that your methodology was flawed.

Highly formal academic hedging.

Mean + to + suggest + that-clause.

The very act of observation means altering the observed state.

Scientific/Philosophical principle.

Gerund subject + means + gerund object.

What it means to be human is a question for the ages.

Existential inquiry.

Noun clause as subject.

The treaty was meant to be a safeguard, but it became a cage.

Metaphorical interpretation of intent.

Passive voice with contrastive 'but'.

I mean to pursue this matter to the highest court if necessary.

Legal/Formal resolve.

Mean + to + pursue + object.

Her smile was meant to disarm, but it only heightened his suspicion.

Describing manipulative intent.

Passive + infinitive + contrast.

To mean everything is, in a sense, to mean nothing at all.

Paradoxical philosophical statement.

Infinitive as subject and complement.

동의어

signify indicate denote intend represent imply

반의어

misinterpret ignore obscure

자주 쓰는 조합

mean business

mean well

mean everything

strictly mean

literally mean

mean to say

hardly mean

necessarily mean

mean for

mean harm

자주 쓰는 구문

What do you mean?

I mean it.

I didn't mean it.

You know what I mean?

I mean...

What I mean is...

Mean to be

Mean a lot

Doesn't mean a thing

By all means

자주 혼동되는 단어

mean vs mean (adjective)

The adjective means unkind or cruel, while the verb means to signify or intend.

mean vs means (noun)

The noun 'means' refers to a method or money (e.g., 'a means of transport').

mean vs meaning (noun)

The noun refers to the definition itself, while the verb is the action of signifying.

관용어 및 표현

"mean business"

To be serious about what you are doing or saying, often in a threatening or determined way.

When the teacher stopped talking, we knew she meant business.

informal

"mean well"

To have good intentions, even if the results are not successful or are annoying.

My mother means well, but she asks too many questions.

neutral

"no mean feat"

A very difficult task or a great achievement.

Climbing that mountain in winter was no mean feat.

neutral

"the end justifies the means"

The idea that a good result is so important that any method, even a bad one, is acceptable to achieve it.

He lied to get the job, arguing that the end justifies the means.

formal

"a means to an end"

Something that you do only because it will help you to achieve something else.

For him, the job is just a means to an end; he really wants to be a writer.

neutral

"by means of"

Using a particular method or system.

The heavy stone was lifted by means of a crane.

formal

"live beyond your means"

To spend more money than you earn.

They are in debt because they live beyond their means.

neutral

"within your means"

Not spending more money than you earn.

It's important to live within your means to avoid debt.

neutral

"golden mean"

The ideal middle ground between two extremes.

Aristotle believed in the golden mean as a way to live a virtuous life.

academic

"mean mischief"

To intend to cause trouble or do something slightly bad.

The look in his eye suggested he meant mischief.

informal

혼동하기 쉬운

mean vs intend

Both talk about purpose.

'Intend' is more formal and only used for plans. 'Mean' is broader and includes definitions and importance.

I intend to go (plan). This means I must go (result).

mean vs signify

Both talk about symbols.

'Signify' is more formal and often used for abstract symbols. 'Mean' is used for everything.

The ring signifies marriage. The word 'ring' means a circle.

mean vs imply

Both talk about hidden meaning.

'Imply' is when you suggest something without saying it. 'Mean' is the actual sense of the words.

He implied I was late. He meant that I should hurry.

mean vs matter

Both talk about importance.

'Matter' is an intransitive verb (It matters). 'Mean' is transitive (It means a lot).

It matters to me. It means a lot to me.

mean vs denote

Both talk about definitions.

'Denote' is technical and refers to the literal object. 'Mean' is general.

The sign denotes a curve. The sign means 'slow down'.

문장 패턴

What does [word] mean?

What does 'apple' mean?

[Subject] means [definition].

This sign means 'stop'.

I didn't mean to [verb].

I didn't mean to break it.

[Subject] means a lot to [person].

He means a lot to me.

[Gerund] means [gerund].

Working means earning money.

I mean, [clause].

I mean, it's not that bad.

It was meant to be [adjective/noun].

It was meant to be a secret.

By [noun], I mean [explanation].

By 'freedom', I mean the right to choose.

어휘 가족

명사

동사

형용사

사용법

frequency

Extremely high; one of the top 500 words in English.

자주 하는 실수

What means this word? → What does this word mean?
In English, questions need the auxiliary verb 'do' or 'does'. You cannot put the verb 'mean' before the subject in a question.
I mean going to the store. → I mean to go to the store.
When expressing intention, 'mean' must be followed by the 'to-infinitive', not the gerund.
He is meaning to me. → He is mean to me.
If you want to say someone is unkind, use the adjective 'mean', not the verb form 'meaning'.
It mean that we are late. → It means that we are late.
Forgetting the third-person 's' is a common error. 'It' is singular, so the verb must be 'means'.
I didn't meant to do it. → I didn't mean to do it.
After 'did' or 'didn't', always use the base form of the verb ('mean'), not the past tense ('meant').

팁

Watch the 'S'

Always remember the third-person singular 's'. 'It means', 'He means', 'She means'. This is a very common mistake for A1-A2 learners.

Use Synonyms

In academic writing, try using 'signify', 'denote', or 'represent' instead of 'mean' to sound more professional and precise.

Clarification Tool

Use 'What do you mean?' whenever you are confused. It is a polite and effective way to keep a conversation going and ensure you understand.

Long Vowel

The 'ee' in 'mean' is long. If you make it too short, it might sound like 'min' or 'men'. Stretch the sound slightly.

Sincerity Check

Use 'I mean it' to show you are being honest. It builds trust in conversations, especially when giving compliments or making promises.

Define Early

When writing an essay, use 'mean' to define your key terms in the introduction. This prevents confusion for your readers.

Filler Recognition

When you hear 'I mean' in a podcast, don't try to translate it literally. It's just a signal that the speaker is clarifying their thoughts.

Mean Business

Learn the idiom 'mean business'. It's a great way to describe someone who is very serious and determined to succeed.

I Mean vs. What I Mean

Use 'I mean' for quick corrections. Use 'What I mean is...' for longer, more detailed explanations of your thoughts.

The Equal Sign

Think of the verb 'mean' as a linguistic equal sign (=). It connects one thing to its definition or its importance.

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기억법

Think of 'Mean' as 'M'ind 'E'xpressed 'A'nd 'N'oted. It's about taking what is in your mind and making it known through words or actions.

시각적 연상

Imagine a dictionary with a giant equal sign (=) on the cover. The equal sign connects the word on the left to the 'meaning' on the right.

Word Web

Definition Intention Importance Signify Plan Value Result Clarify

챌린지

Try to use 'mean' in three different ways today: once to ask for a definition, once to apologize for an accident, and once to tell someone they are important.

어원

Derived from the Old English word 'mænan', which meant 'to mean, tell, say, or complain'. It has roots in the Proto-Germanic '*mainijan', which is related to the concept of 'opinion' or 'intention'.

원래 의미: To have in mind, to think, or to express a thought.

Germanic

문화적 맥락

Be careful with the adjective 'mean' (unkind), as it can be offensive. The verb 'mean' is generally neutral and safe to use.

The use of 'I mean' as a filler is very common in the US and UK, but using it too much can be seen as a sign of lack of confidence in formal settings.

The Meaning of Life (Monty Python film) What Do You Mean? (Justin Bieber song) Man's Search for Meaning (Viktor Frankl book)

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실제 사용 상황

Language Learning

What does this mean?
How do you say 'mean' in...?
Does this mean the same as...?
I don't understand what you mean.

Apologizing

I didn't mean to.
I'm sorry, I didn't mean that.
I didn't mean any harm.
That's not what I meant.

Expressing Importance

You mean the world to me.
This means a lot.
It means everything.
Does it mean anything to you?

Logical Consequences

This means we have to go.
It doesn't mean you're wrong.
Does that mean we're finished?
Winning means a lot of work.

Clarifying Thoughts

I mean, it's complicated.
What I mean is...
Do you know what I mean?
By that, I mean...

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"What does happiness mean to you in your daily life?"

"If you could change what one word means, which word would it be?"

"When you say you 'mean business', what is the first thing you do?"

"Does a gift mean more if it is expensive or if it is handmade?"

"What do you mean when you say you are 'busy'?"

일기 주제

Write about a time you didn't mean to hurt someone's feelings. How did you explain yourself?

What does 'success' mean to you? Has this definition changed as you have gotten older?

Describe a person who means a lot to you. Why are they so significant in your life?

Think about a difficult decision you made. What did that decision mean for your future?

Reflect on the phrase 'the end justifies the means'. Do you agree with it? Why or why not?

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10 질문

The correct form is 'What does it mean?'. In English, we use the auxiliary verb 'do/does' to form questions in the present simple tense. 'What means it?' is grammatically incorrect and sounds like a direct translation from other languages.

Yes, as a verb it shows importance: 'You mean a lot to me.' As an adjective, it means unkind: 'He is a mean person.' Be careful not to confuse the two grammatical roles.

'Mean to do' refers to an intention or plan (e.g., 'I mean to help'). 'Mean doing' refers to a consequence or what something involves (e.g., 'This job means traveling').

It is a very common filler word. While using it occasionally is natural, overusing it can make you sound hesitant or unclear. It is best to use it only when you actually need to clarify something.

It means 'I am serious' or 'I am not joking'. It is used to add weight and sincerity to a previous statement, such as a promise, a warning, or a compliment.

Yes, often in the form 'be meant to'. For example, 'It was meant to be a surprise' or 'You are meant to be here at 9 AM'. This usually refers to an original intention or a requirement.

The past tense and past participle is 'meant', pronounced /ment/. It rhymes with 'sent' or 'bent'. Example: 'I meant what I said yesterday.'

Usually, yes. It is a transitive verb. You mean *something* or you mean *to do something*. The exception is the filler 'I mean' or the emphatic 'I mean it'.

The most common way is to say 'I didn't mean to [do something]'. For example, 'I didn't mean to step on your foot.' This shows the action was an accident.

It is an idiom that means a very impressive or difficult achievement. For example, 'Learning 100 words a day is no mean feat.' Here, 'mean' is used in an old sense meaning 'small' or 'insignificant'.