ENGLISH
REFERENCE

means

n.
US //ˈminz// UK //mˈiːnz// means
  1. 1 a method or way (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a method, tool, or way of achieving a specific result.

    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.

    Example

    For many people, the bicycle is their only means of transport to get to work.

    Example

    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.

  2. 2 money and wealth (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the money or income that you have available to pay for things.

    available financial resources or accumulated wealth. Always treated as a plural noun in this sense.

    Example

    They lived a simple life and always made sure to stay within their means.

    Example

    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'.
Idioms2 entries

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