mean

The word “mean” means to intend or have in mind as a purpose. In plain terms, can describe intending something, what a word signifies, being unkind or stingy, or the mathematical average of a set of numbers.

“Mean” is pronounced meen (/min/ in IPA).

Here is “mean” used in a sentence: “I didn't mean to interrupt you.”

Words with a similar meaning to “mean” include inconsiderate, insensitive, halfhearted, mean-spirited, merciless and petty.

The opposite of “mean” — its antonyms — are compassionate, kindly and nice.

Depending on how it is used, “mean” can be a verb, an adjective and a noun.

The word “mean” comes from Old English. From Old English mǣnan ("to intend, complain"), related to the word "moan".

“Mean” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

Both express purpose, but 'mean' is more everyday and conversational, while 'intend' sounds more deliberate and formal. 'Mean' often appears when outcomes go astray, as in 'I didn't mean to break it,' whereas 'intend' stresses a planned aim: 'we intend to expand.' In many sentences they swap freely.

No. In this sense it means 'to intend,' but 'mean' also signifies 'to denote', as in 'red means stop.' As an adjective it can describe someone unkind, or in maths refer to the average. The word's sense depends entirely on how it is used.

The past tense and past participle are both 'meant,' spelled m-e-a-n-t and rhyming with 'went.' So you say 'I meant to help,' not 'meaned.' It is an irregular verb, which is why the spelling and pronunciation change from the base form.

You might say 'I meant to call you back' or 'She didn't mean to cause offence.' Both use 'mean' to describe what someone had in mind as a purpose. The phrase 'mean to' is the everyday way English speakers express intention, especially about unfulfilled or mistaken actions.