English Reference
Idiom idiom

mean to do sth


to do something on purpose or have a specific plan in mind.


SIMPLE

“I am sorry, I did not mean to do that.”

CONTEXTUAL

“He apologized immediately after the accident, explaining that he certainly did not mean to do it.”

COMPLEX

“She insisted that she never meant to do any harm, despite the unintended consequences of her impulsive decision.”

Last updated April 22, 2026