Word
means
US/ˈminz/
UK/mˈiːnz/
Definitions
01a method or way
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun
n. a method, tool, or way of achieving a specific result.
n. a method, instrument, or agency used to achieve an end; though plural in form, it often takes a singular verb when referring to a single method.
日本語:手段※
“For many people, the bicycle is their only means of transport to get to work.”
“The diplomat viewed the ceasefire not as a final solution, but merely as a means to facilitate further humanitarian negotiations.”
Usage
Often used in the phrase 'a means to an end'.
Pitfall
The internet is a very fast mean of communication.
The internet is a very fast means of communication.
In the sense of 'method', the word 'means' always ends in 's', even when referring to just one thing.
02money and wealth
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun
n. the money or income that you have available to pay for things.
n. available financial resources or accumulated wealth. Always treated as a plural noun in this sense.
Español:medios
“They lived a simple life and always made sure to stay within their means.”
“The scholarship was specifically designed to support students of limited means who showed exceptional academic promise.”
Usage
Commonly used in the phrase 'beyond one's means' or 'within one's means'.
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “means” in context.
Verb
01. develop means
“Scientists are working to develop means of detecting the virus more quickly.”
verb + noun
Adjective
02. alternative means
“If the bus is not running, we must find alternative means of transport.”
adj + noun
03. effective means
“Social media has become an effective means of reaching a younger audience.”
adj + noun
04. efficient means
“The new engine provides a more efficient means of converting fuel into energy.”
adj + noun
05. important means
“Education is an important means of achieving social mobility.”
adj + noun
06. primary means
“For many people, the internet is their primary means of communication.”
adj + noun
07. various means
“The charity raises money through various means, including auctions and fun runs.”
adj + noun
Real-World Examples
“That means less competition for first home buyers trying to buy a home,” Azize said.” “His mum, Lowri, gave him a Welsh-language book called Gofod, which means space.” “That means a season like this one may become less of a one-off , and more of a preview of what British farming has to deal with regularly.” “This means hosepipes cannot be used for watering gardens, washing vehicles and windows and filling pools.” Idioms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Very common
- Level
- B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/means
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「日本語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0
Traducciones: Kaikki.org (Wiktionary), CC BY-SA 4.0