Understanding idioms is crucial for mastering English, as they add color and nuance to everyday communication. This article focuses on idioms related to the word “mean,” exploring their various meanings, structures, and usage.
By learning these idioms, you’ll enhance your comprehension of spoken and written English and improve your ability to express yourself more effectively. This guide is perfect for English language learners, students, and anyone looking to expand their vocabulary and fluency.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of Idioms for “Mean”
- Structural Breakdown of Idioms
- Types and Categories of Idioms for “Mean”
- Examples of Idioms for “Mean”
- Usage Rules for Idioms
- Common Mistakes When Using Idioms
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics in Idiom Usage
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Introduction
Idioms are phrases or expressions whose meanings cannot be understood from the ordinary meanings of the words that make them up. They add depth and color to the English language, making it more expressive and engaging.
Mastering idioms is essential for effective communication, as they frequently appear in everyday conversations, literature, and media. This article specifically explores idioms related to the word “mean,” covering various aspects such as intention, unkindness, stinginess, and mediocrity.
Understanding these idioms will significantly enhance your comprehension and fluency in English.
Definition of Idioms for “Mean”
An idiom is a phrase or expression where the words used together have a meaning that is different from the dictionary definitions of the individual words. Idioms often rely on cultural context and figurative language to convey their intended meaning.
When we talk about “idioms for mean,” we’re referring to expressions that use the word “mean” or related concepts in a non-literal way to convey a specific idea or feeling. These idioms can relate to intention, unkindness, stinginess, or being average.
The function of idioms is to add color, depth, and nuance to communication. They allow speakers and writers to express complex ideas and emotions in a concise and engaging manner.
Understanding idioms is vital for comprehending spoken and written English, as their non-literal nature can be confusing for non-native speakers. Idioms are deeply rooted in culture and history, and their usage often reflects the values and experiences of a particular community.
Structural Breakdown of Idioms
Idioms can vary widely in their grammatical structure. Some idioms are phrases, while others are clauses or even complete sentences.
The structure of an idiom often contributes to its unique meaning and impact. It’s important to note that idioms cannot be altered or modified without losing their intended meaning.
The specific words and their arrangement are fixed, and any deviation can result in confusion or misinterpretation.
Many idioms follow common structural patterns, such as verb + preposition combinations (e.g., “get away with”), noun phrases (e.g., “a piece of cake”), or comparative constructions (e.g., “as cool as a cucumber”). Understanding these patterns can help learners recognize and interpret idioms more easily.
However, it’s also important to remember that idioms are often irregular and may not conform to standard grammatical rules. Therefore, memorization and exposure to authentic language are crucial for mastering idioms.
Types and Categories of Idioms for “Mean”
Idioms related to “mean” can be categorized based on the specific aspect of the word they represent. Here are some key categories:
- Intention and Purpose: These idioms describe what someone intends to do or the purpose behind their actions.
- Unkindness and Cruelty: These idioms express the idea of being mean-spirited, cruel, or malicious.
- Stinginess and Ungenerosity: These idioms describe someone who is unwilling to spend money or share resources.
- Mediocrity and Ordinariness: These idioms refer to something that is average, ordinary, or unremarkable.
Examples of Idioms for “Mean”
The following sections provide examples of idioms for “mean,” categorized by their specific meaning. Each table includes a variety of idioms, their meanings, and example sentences to illustrate their usage.
Idioms Related to Meaning and Intention
These idioms relate to significance, purpose, or what someone intends to do. They often involve the idea of something being important or having a particular meaning.
The following table lists idioms related to meaning and intention. Each idiom is defined, and an example sentence is provided to illustrate its usage.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Mean business | To be serious about something; to be determined to do something. | When she said she was going to get a promotion, she meant business and worked incredibly hard. |
| What do you mean? | A question asking for clarification or explanation. | “I think we should sell the car.” “What do you mean? We just bought it!” |
| Mean well | To have good intentions, even if the outcome is not positive. | He means well, but his advice is often unhelpful. |
| That means… | Indicates the consequence or implication of something. | If we miss the train, that means we’ll be late for the meeting. |
| By all means | Certainly; of course; definitely. | “Can I borrow your pen?” “By all means, go ahead.” |
| What’s the meaning of this? | A question demanding an explanation for something unexpected or inappropriate. | The teacher asked, “What’s the meaning of this? Why are you all out of your seats?” |
| I mean to say | Used to clarify or rephrase something that has been said. | “I didn’t like the movie, I mean to say, the ending was terrible.” |
| No meaning to it | Lacking purpose or significance. | The abstract painting seemed to have no meaning to it. |
| Mean to do something | To intend to do something. | I meant to call you yesterday, but I got busy. |
| What I mean is… | Used to rephrase or clarify a previous statement. | “What I mean is, we need to consider all the options before making a decision.” |
| Take it to mean | To interpret something in a particular way. | I took it to mean that he wasn’t interested in the job. |
| Mean for something | Intended or designed for a specific purpose. | This tool is meant for cutting metal, not wood. |
| Did you mean to…? | Asking if an action was intentional. | Did you mean to spill the coffee on my shirt? |
| What does that mean for…? | Asking about the implications or consequences of something. | What does that mean for our project timeline? |
| Mean the world | To be very important or significant to someone. | Your support means the world to me. |
| Mean as gold | To be as good as gold; valuable and reliable (less common). | His advice is mean as gold when you’re in a tough spot. |
| Mean a lot | To be very important or significant. | This award means a lot to me after all the hard work. |
| Mean well but… | To have good intentions but lack the skill or ability to execute them effectively. | He means well but often makes things worse. |
| By no means | Definitely not; not at all. | “Are you tired?” “By no means! I’m ready for more.” |
| What do you mean by that? | A question challenging the intention or implication of a statement. | “You’re being difficult.” “What do you mean by that?“ |
| It means that… | Implying a certain result or consequence. | If you study hard, it means that you’ll likely pass the exam. |
| Mean time | The time halfway between two points or events. | In the mean time, let’s prepare the presentation slides. |
| Mean something to someone | To have a particular importance or value to someone. | This old photograph means something to my grandmother because it reminds her of her childhood. |
Idioms Related to Being Unkind or Cruel
These idioms describe behavior that is deliberately hurtful, unkind, or malicious. They often involve the idea of causing emotional or physical pain to others.
The following table lists idioms related to being unkind or cruel. Each idiom is defined, and an example sentence is provided to illustrate its usage.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Mean streak | A tendency to be cruel or unkind. | He has a mean streak and often says hurtful things without thinking. |
| Be mean to someone | To treat someone unkindly or unfairly. | It’s never okay to be mean to others, regardless of the situation. |
| Mean-spirited | Having an unkind or cruel disposition. | His mean-spirited comments made everyone uncomfortable. |
| A mean look | A facial expression that conveys unkindness or disapproval. | She gave him a mean look when he interrupted her. |
| Low-down and mean | Despicable and unkind. | That was a low-down and mean thing to do. |
| Mean as a snake | Very unkind or cruel. | He’s mean as a snake; I wouldn’t trust him. |
| Play a mean trick | To perform a cruel or unfair prank. | The kids played a mean trick on their neighbor by hiding his newspaper. |
| Has a mean temper | Easily angered and prone to being unkind. | He has a mean temper, so be careful what you say around him. |
| Not a mean bone in one’s body | To be entirely kind and gentle. | She doesn’t have a mean bone in her body; she’s always helping others. |
| Mean mugging | Staring at someone in a threatening or intimidating way. | He was mean mugging the other team during the basketball game. |
| Mean-machine | Something, often a vehicle, that looks powerful and intimidating. | His new motorcycle is a real mean-machine. |
| Mean to someone’s face | To be unkind or insulting directly to someone. | He was mean to her face, criticizing her outfit in front of everyone. |
| Mean behind someone’s back | To be unkind or critical when someone is not present. | It’s not right to be mean behind someone’s back; if you have something to say, say it to their face. |
| A mean thing to say | An unkind or hurtful statement. | That was a mean thing to say; you should apologize. |
| Mean spirited joke | A joke intended to cause hurt feelings or embarrassment. | His joke was a mean spirited joke that made the guest of honor uncomfortable. |
| Get mean | To become unkind or aggressive. | Don’t get mean with me just because you’re having a bad day. |
| Mean-tempered | Having a consistently bad temper and being easily angered. | The mean-tempered old man yelled at the children for playing in his yard. |
| Mean competition | Competition that is fierce, cutthroat, and without mercy. | The tech industry is a mean competition, with companies constantly trying to outdo each other. |
| Mean words | Unkind or hurtful things that are said. | Her mean words really hurt my feelings. |
| Mean with the truth | To deliberately distort or withhold the truth to cause harm. | He was mean with the truth, twisting the story to make her look bad. |
| Mean with compliments | To be reluctant to give praise or compliments. | She’s mean with compliments, but when she does give one, you know it’s genuine. |
| Mean to do something | To do something with the intention of causing harm or upset. | I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. |
| Mean to avoid | Actively trying to ignore or avoid someone. | He’s been mean to avoid me at the office since our argument. |
Idioms Related to Being Stingy or Ungenerous
These idioms describe someone who is unwilling to spend money or share resources. They often involve the idea of being tight-fisted or miserly.
The following table lists idioms related to being stingy or ungenerous. Each idiom is defined, and an example sentence is provided to illustrate its usage.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Mean with money | Reluctant to spend money; stingy. | He’s mean with money and never offers to pay for anything. |
| A mean man | A stingy or ungenerous person. | He’s known as a mean man because he never donates to charity. |
| Mean as dirt | Extremely stingy or ungenerous. | He’s mean as dirt; he wouldn’t give you the time of day if you asked. |
| Mean spirited when it comes to money | Having an unkind attitude towards spending or sharing money. | He is mean spirited when it comes to money, never wanting to treat anyone. |
| Mean with the sugar | Being stingy with supplies. | The baker was mean with the sugar, so the cake tasted bland. |
| A mean portion | A small or inadequate serving of food. | The restaurant served a mean portion of pasta for such a high price. |
| Mean with their time | Unwilling to give or share their time with others. | She is very mean with their time, and always says she is too busy to help. |
| Mean with resources | Unwilling to share or use resources generously. | The company was mean with resources, cutting corners wherever possible. |
| Mean with their words of encouragement | Not offering enough praise or encouragement. | The coach was mean with their words of encouragement, which discouraged the team. |
| Mean with the help | Unwilling to provide assistance or support. | When I asked for help, he was mean with the help and refused to lend a hand. |
| Mean with their possessions | Unwilling to share or lend their belongings. | He’s always been mean with their possessions; he never lets anyone borrow his tools. |
| Mean with the amenities | Not providing adequate or comfortable facilities. | The hotel was mean with the amenities, offering only the bare minimum. |
| Mean when it comes to paying | Reluctant to spend money when it’s their turn to pay. | He’s mean when it comes to paying, always trying to avoid the bill. |
| Mean with the discounts | Not offering generous discounts or deals. | The store was mean with the discounts, so I didn’t buy anything. |
| Mean with the donations | Not donating generously to charitable causes. | He’s known for being mean with the donations, rarely contributing to fundraisers. |
| Mean with the attention | Not giving enough attention or care to someone or something. | The teacher was mean with the attention, not helping the struggling students enough. |
| Mean with the supplies | Unwilling to provide adequate supplies or materials. | The company was mean with the supplies, making it difficult to do our jobs. |
| Mean when it comes to sharing | Reluctant to share possessions or resources with others. | He’s always been mean when it comes to sharing, never letting anyone use his things. |
| Mean with the support | Not providing adequate support or assistance. | The organization was mean with the support, leaving the volunteers to fend for themselves. |
| Mean with the praise | Not offering enough praise or recognition for accomplishments. | The boss was mean with the praise, even when we exceeded our goals. |
| Mean to lend a hand | Reluctant to help someone. | He was mean to lend a hand, even when I was struggling to carry the heavy boxes. |
| Mean with their generosity | Lacking in generosity. | She’s mean with their generosity, never offering to help those in need. |
| Mean with their care | Not giving enough care or attention to someone or something. | They were mean with their care, neglecting the plants until they withered. |
Idioms Related to Being Mediocre or Ordinary
While less common, some idioms use “mean” in a statistical sense or to imply something is average or unremarkable. These idioms are fewer in number but still relevant to understanding the range of meanings associated with “mean.”
The following table lists idioms related to being mediocre or ordinary. Each idiom is defined, and an example sentence is provided to illustrate its usage.
In this category, the connection to “mean” is more subtle and often related to statistical averages or concepts of moderation.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Strike a happy medium | To find a compromise or balance between two extremes. | We need to strike a happy medium between being too strict and too lenient. |
| In the meantime | During the intervening period; while waiting for something else to happen. | In the meantime, let’s work on the introduction. |
| Golden mean | The ideal moderate position between two extremes. | The philosopher advocated for the golden mean in all aspects of life. |
| Mean average | The average value of a set of numbers. | The mean average test score was 75%. |
| Mean to an end | A thing that is not valued or important in itself but is useful in achieving an aim. | For him, money is just a mean to an end; he values experiences more. |
| Strike a mean | To find an average or balance | The negotiators tried to strike a mean between the two sides’ demands. |
| Mean level | The average or typical level of something. | The mean level of rainfall in this area is about 30 inches per year. |
| Find the mean | To determine the average value. | To find the mean, you need to add up all the numbers and divide by the count. |
| The mean of the road | The middle ground; a course of action that avoids extremes. | He preferred to take the mean of the road in his political views, appealing to a wide range of voters. |
| Mean temperature | The average temperature over a period of time. | The mean temperature for July was 80 degrees Fahrenheit. |
| Mean performance | An average or typical level of performance. | The team’s mean performance has been improving steadily. |
Usage Rules for Idioms
Idioms have specific usage rules that must be followed to ensure correct and effective communication. Here are some key rules to keep in mind:
- Fixed Structure: Idioms have a fixed structure and cannot be altered or modified. Changing the words or their order will often render the idiom meaningless or confusing.
- Context Matters: The meaning of an idiom depends on the context in which it is used. Pay attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation to understand the intended meaning.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Some idioms are culturally specific and may not be understood by people from different backgrounds. Be mindful of your audience and avoid using idioms that may be offensive or confusing.
- Formal vs. Informal: Idioms are generally more common in informal settings, such as conversations with friends and family. Avoid using too many idioms in formal writing or presentations.
Understanding the nuances of idiom usage is crucial for mastering English. Pay attention to how native speakers use idioms and practice incorporating them into your own speech and writing.
With time and effort, you’ll become more confident and fluent in your use of idioms.
Common Mistakes When Using Idioms
Using idioms correctly can be challenging, especially for non-native speakers. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Literal Interpretation: Interpreting idioms literally is a common mistake. Remember that idioms have a figurative meaning that is different from the dictionary definitions of the individual words.
- Incorrect Word Choice: Using the wrong words in an idiom can change its meaning or make it nonsensical. Always use the correct words and their proper form.
- Grammatical Errors: Making grammatical errors within an idiom can also alter its meaning. Pay attention to verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and other grammatical rules.
- Overuse of Idioms: Using too many idioms in a single conversation or piece of writing can make your language sound unnatural or forced. Use idioms sparingly and only when they are appropriate.
Here are some examples of common mistakes and their corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| He is meaning business. | He means business. | The idiom “mean business” is in the present tense. |
| What do you mean of that? | What do you mean by that? | The correct preposition is “by,” not “of.” |
| She means good. | She means well. | The correct idiom is “mean well,” not “mean good.” |
| By the meanest. | By no means. | The correct idiom is “by no means,” meaning definitely not. |
| Mean as a devil. | Mean as a snake. | The more common idiom is “mean as a snake”. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of idioms for “mean” with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences with the correct idiom from the list below.
Idiom List: mean business, what do you mean, means well, that means, by all means
- If you finish all your homework, ___________ you can watch TV. (that means)
- He ___________, but his advice isn’t always helpful. (means well)
- “Can I borrow your car?” “___________, just be careful.” (by all means)
- When she said she was going to win the competition, she ___________. (mean business)
- “I think we should move to another city.” “___________?” (what do you mean)
Exercise 2: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct meaning of the idiom in each sentence.
- He has a mean streak.
- a) He is very generous.
- b) He has a tendency to be cruel.
- c) He is always happy.
- She is mean with money.
- a) She spends a lot of money.
- b) She is reluctant to spend money.
- c) She is good at managing money.
- In the meantime, let’s prepare the presentation.
- a) At the same time.
- b) During the intervening period.
- c) After the presentation.
- He is mean as dirt.
- a) He is very kind.
- b) He is extremely stingy.
- c) He is very generous.
- By no means are we going to give up.
- a) Certainly.
- b) Definitely not.
- c) Maybe.
Exercise 3: Sentence Completion
Complete the following sentences using an appropriate idiom for “mean.”
- He didn’t ___________ to hurt your feelings; he was just trying to be honest. (mean)
- The company was ___________ with resources, so we had to be very careful with our budget. (mean)
- She has ___________ in her body; she is always kind and helpful. (not a mean bone)
- What ___________ for our project if we don’t get the funding? (does that mean)
- He tried to ___________ between the two sides, but it was difficult. (strike a mean)
Answer Key
Exercise 1:
- that means
- means well
- by all means
- meant business
- what do you mean
Exercise 2:
- b
- b
- b
- b
- b
Exercise 3:
- mean
- mean
- not a mean bone
- does that mean
- strike a mean
Advanced Topics in Idiom Usage
For advanced learners, exploring the etymology and cultural context of idioms can provide a deeper understanding of their meaning and usage. Researching the origins of idioms can reveal fascinating insights into the history and values of a particular culture.
Additionally, analyzing how idioms are used in literature, film, and other forms of media can enhance your comprehension and appreciation of the English language.
Another advanced topic is the use of idioms in persuasive writing and public speaking. Mastering the art of using idioms effectively can make your communication more engaging, memorable, and impactful.
However, it’s important to use idioms judiciously and avoid overusing them, as this can make your language sound unnatural or forced.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an idiom?
An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be understood from the ordinary meanings of the words that make it up. It has a figurative meaning that is different from its literal meaning. For example, “kick the bucket” is an idiom that means “to die.”
- Why are idioms important?
Idioms are important because they add color, depth, and nuance to the English language. They allow speakers and writers to express complex ideas and emotions in a concise and engaging manner. Understanding idioms is crucial for comprehending spoken and written English, as they frequently appear in everyday conversations, literature, and media.
- How can I learn idioms effectively?
Learning idioms effectively requires a combination of memorization, contextual understanding, and practice. Start by learning common idioms and their meanings. Pay attention to how native speakers use idioms in conversations and writing. Practice using idioms in your own speech and writing to reinforce your understanding.
- Are idioms the same in all English-speaking countries?
No, idioms can vary between different English-speaking countries and regions. Some idioms are specific to a particular country or region, while others are more widely used. Be aware of these regional differences and adapt your language accordingly.
- Can I translate idioms directly into another language?
No, idioms cannot be translated directly into another language. The figurative meaning of an idiom is often specific to the English language and culture. A direct translation may not make sense or may have a different meaning in another language.
- How do I know when to use an idiom?
Use idioms when they are appropriate for the context and audience. Idioms are generally more common in informal settings, such as conversations with friends and family. Avoid using too many idioms in formal writing or presentations.
- What should I do if I don’t understand an idiom?
If you don’t understand an idiom, ask for clarification. Ask the speaker or writer to explain the meaning of the idiom. You can also look up the idiom in a dictionary or online resource.
- Are there any resources to help me learn idioms?
Yes, there are many resources available to help you learn idioms. Dictionaries, online resources, and language learning websites often include explanations and examples of common idioms. You can also find books and courses specifically designed to teach idioms.
Conclusion
Mastering idioms related to “mean” can significantly enhance your understanding and fluency in English. By learning the various meanings, structures, and usage rules of these idioms, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively and confidently.
Remember to pay attention to context, avoid literal interpretations, and practice using idioms in your own speech and writing. With time and effort, you’ll become more comfortable and proficient in your use of idioms, adding color and depth to your language.
Keep practicing with different examples and exercises to reinforce your knowledge. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes along the way; learning from your errors is an essential part of the process.
By continuously expanding your vocabulary and honing your understanding of idioms, you’ll unlock new levels of fluency and comprehension in English.