a means of communication
fixed phr..fixed phr.. a way or method that people use to share information or talk to each other.
fixed phr.. a method, system, or instrument used for the exchange of information or ideas; 'means' functions here as a singular or plural noun denoting a medium.
Email is a common means of communication.
In remote areas, satellite phones are often the only reliable means of communication during emergencies.
The rapid development of digital platforms has revolutionized every means of communication available to modern businesses.
the word 'means' ends in 's' but is treated as singular when preceded by 'a'.
point out that 'means' is an irregular noun that looks plural but can be singular; contrast this with 'a mean', which has a completely different mathematical meaning.
a mean of communicationa means of communicationthe word 'means' must include the 's' even when referring to a single method.