Word
a means of transport
Definition
compound. a way of traveling from one place to another, such as a car, bus, or train.
compound. a noun phrase referring to any vehicle or system used for the conveyance of passengers or goods.
Examples
“The bicycle is a cheap means of transport.”
“In many large cities, the subway is the most efficient means of transport for daily commuters.”
“The government is investing in sustainable infrastructure to ensure that every citizen has access to a reliable means of transport.”
Examples
simple
“The bicycle is a cheap means of transport.”
contextual
“In many large cities, the subway is the most efficient means of transport for daily commuters.”
complex
“The government is investing in sustainable infrastructure to ensure that every citizen has access to a reliable means of transport.”
Usage
the word 'means' is always plural in this phrase, even when referring to a single vehicle.
Teaching tip
highlight that 'means' functions as a singular noun here despite the 's'; students often mistakenly say 'a mean of transport'.
Pitfall
a mean of transport
a means of transport
the word 'means' must end in 's' because it refers to a method or way, which is a singular noun in this form.