Understanding how we use metaphors to express the concept of “mean” is crucial for mastering English. The word “mean” possesses a wide array of meanings, from intending to do something to calculating an average.
This article focuses on the metaphorical uses of “mean,” exploring how we stretch and shape the word to convey nuanced ideas. Whether you are an ESL student, a writer looking to enrich your prose, or simply someone fascinated by the intricacies of language, this guide will provide you with a thorough understanding of the metaphors for “mean.” We will explore various contexts, provide numerous examples, and offer practice exercises to solidify your knowledge.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of “Mean” and Metaphor
- Structural Breakdown
- Types of Metaphorical “Mean”
- Examples of Metaphorical “Mean”
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “Mean” and Metaphor
The word “mean” is a versatile verb and adjective with multiple definitions. It can refer to intending to convey a particular meaning, signifying something, calculating an average, or behaving in an unkind way. In this article, we’re particularly interested in how “mean” functions metaphorically. A metaphor is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable.
The classification of “mean” depends on its specific usage in a sentence. As a verb, it’s typically a transitive verb, requiring an object (e.g., “What does this word mean?”). As an adjective, it can describe something that is average or unkind. The function of “mean” in a sentence is to convey information about the subject, whether it’s an intention, a definition, a calculation, or a characteristic.
Context is crucial to understanding the specific meaning of “mean”. For example, “He didn’t mean to hurt her” uses “mean” to express intention, while “The mean temperature in July is 80 degrees” uses it to express an average. Recognizing these different contexts is essential for interpreting metaphorical uses of the word.
Structural Breakdown
The structure surrounding “mean” can vary depending on its intended meaning. When “mean” is used to express intention, it is often followed by an infinitive: “I mean to finish this project today.” When it refers to meaning or significance, it’s often followed by a noun clause or a prepositional phrase: “What does this symbol mean?” or “This means nothing to me.”
When “mean” is used to describe an average, it often appears in a sentence structure like: “The mean (average) score was…” The adjective “mean” can also be used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb): “He’s a mean person” (attributive) or “He is mean” (predicative).
Understanding these structural patterns helps in correctly interpreting and using “mean” in various contexts. Recognizing the grammatical role “mean” plays (verb or adjective) and what follows it (infinitive, noun, prepositional phrase) is key to understanding its specific meaning in a given sentence.
Types of Metaphorical “Mean”
The word “mean” takes on different metaphorical shades depending on the context. We can broadly categorize these into four main types:
Meaning/Significance
This refers to the metaphorical use of “mean” to express the significance, importance, or connotation of something. It goes beyond the literal definition to encompass the deeper implications or symbolic value.
Intention/Purpose
Here, “mean” is used metaphorically to convey the underlying purpose, goal, or intention behind an action or statement. It focuses on what someone is trying to achieve or communicate, often implicitly.
Average/Mathematical
While typically literal, the concept of “average” can be used metaphorically to describe a typical, representative, or expected value in a non-numerical context. It implies a sense of normalcy or commonality.
Unkindness/Cruelty
This is perhaps the most common metaphorical use, where “mean” describes someone who is deliberately hurtful, malicious, or unkind. It extends beyond simple rudeness to imply a deeper level of cruelty.
Examples of Metaphorical “Mean”
To illustrate the different types of metaphorical “mean,” let’s explore various examples in detail. These examples will help you understand how the word is used in different contexts and with different nuances.
Meaning/Significance Examples
The following table provides examples of “mean” used metaphorically to express meaning or significance. Notice how the word goes beyond a simple definition to convey deeper implications.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “The dark clouds meant a storm was coming.” | The clouds symbolized an impending storm. |
| “His silence meant he disagreed with the proposal.” | His silence conveyed his disapproval. |
| “The red rose meant love and passion.” | The rose symbolized romantic feelings. |
| “A broken mirror meant bad luck in some cultures.” | The broken mirror symbolized misfortune. |
| “Her tears meant she was deeply hurt.” | Her tears conveyed her emotional pain. |
| “The eagle means freedom and courage.” | The eagle symbolizes liberty and bravery. |
| “The handshake meant they had reached an agreement.” | The handshake symbolized a mutual understanding. |
| “The empty chair meant someone was missing.” | The chair symbolized absence. |
| “The flickering candle meant their hope was fading.” | The candle symbolized diminishing hope. |
| “The dove means peace.” | The dove symbolizes tranquility. |
| “A rainbow after the rain meant a new beginning.” | The rainbow symbolized hope and renewal. |
| “The setting sun meant the end of the day.” | The sun symbolized the day’s completion. |
| “A closed door meant privacy.” | The door symbolized seclusion. |
| “The ticking clock meant time was running out.” | The clock symbolized urgency. |
| “The owl means wisdom.” | The owl symbolizes knowledge and intelligence. |
| “The full moon meant a night of magic.” | The moon symbolized enchantment. |
| “A ringing bell meant attention was needed.” | The bell symbolized a call to action. |
| “The green light meant it was safe to proceed.” | The light symbolized permission. |
| “The anchor means stability and hope.” | The anchor symbolizes security. |
| “The winter season meant rest and reflection.” | The season symbolized a time for introspection. |
| “The compass means direction and guidance.” | The compass symbolized finding one’s way. |
| “A clean slate meant a fresh start.” | The slate symbolized a new opportunity. |
| “The olive branch means peace offering.” | The olive branch symbolized reconciliation. |
Intention/Purpose Examples
The following table illustrates how “mean” can be used metaphorically to express intention or purpose. These examples focus on the underlying goal or motivation behind actions and statements.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “I didn’t mean to upset you with my words.” | The speaker’s intention was not to cause distress. |
| “She didn’t mean for things to turn out this way.” | Her initial purpose was different from the outcome. |
| “He meant well, even if his actions were misguided.” | His intentions were good, despite the negative results. |
| “They meant to create a better future for their children.” | Their purpose was to improve their children’s lives. |
| “The politician meant to inspire hope with his speech.” | The politician’s goal was to encourage optimism. |
| “I mean to get this project done by Friday.” | The speaker is determined to finish the project. |
| “She meant to call you back, but she got busy.” | Her intention was to return the call. |
| “We mean to make a difference in the community.” | Our purpose is to create a positive impact. |
| “He meant to surprise her with a gift.” | His intention was to give her a pleasant surprise. |
| “They meant to address the issue in the meeting.” | Their purpose was to discuss the problem. |
| “I didn’t mean to interrupt you.” | The speaker did not intend to disrupt the other person. |
| “She didn’t mean to cause any trouble.” | Her intention was not to create problems. |
| “He meant to offer his support.” | His purpose was to provide assistance. |
| “They meant to keep it a secret.” | Their intention was to maintain confidentiality. |
| “I mean to learn a new language this year.” | The speaker is determined to acquire a new language. |
| “She meant to write a thank-you note.” | Her intention was to express gratitude. |
| “We mean to improve our customer service.” | Our purpose is to enhance the service we provide. |
| “He meant to create a lasting legacy.” | His intention was to leave a significant impact. |
| “They meant to build a strong team.” | Their purpose was to develop a cohesive group. |
| “I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.” | The speaker did not intend to cause discomfort. |
| “She didn’t mean to reveal your secret.” | Her intention was not to disclose your private information. |
| “He meant to inspire the next generation.” | His purpose was to motivate young people. |
| “They meant to create a welcoming atmosphere.” | Their intention was to foster a friendly environment. |
Average/Mathematical Examples
This table presents examples where “mean” is used, sometimes metaphorically, to represent an average or typical value, even in contexts that aren’t strictly mathematical.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “The mean age of the participants was 35.” | The average age was 35 years old. |
| “The mean income in the city is relatively high.” | The average income is higher than in other areas. |
| “On the mean, we receive about 10 emails per day.” | Typically, we receive around 10 emails daily. |
| “The mean temperature in July is 80 degrees Fahrenheit.” | The average temperature in July is 80 degrees. |
| “What is the mean score on this test?” | What is the average score? |
| “The mean time to complete the task was 2 hours.” | The average completion time was 2 hours. |
| “On the mean, employees work 40 hours a week.” | Typically, employees work 40 hours weekly. |
| “The mean rainfall in this region is 50 inches per year.” | The average rainfall is 50 inches annually. |
| “What’s the mean price for a house in this neighborhood?” | What’s the average house price? |
| “The mean number of customers per day is 100.” | The average number of customers is 100. |
| “The mean waiting time at the restaurant is 15 minutes.” | The average wait is 15 minutes. |
| “On the mean, people spend two hours on social media daily.” | Typically, people spend two hours on social media each day. |
| “The mean height of the trees in the forest is 50 feet.” | The average tree height is 50 feet. |
| “What’s the mean cost of a movie ticket?” | What’s the average movie ticket price? |
| “The mean number of books read per year is 12.” | The average number of books read annually is 12. |
| “The mean electricity consumption is 500 kWh per month.” | The average electricity usage is 500 kWh monthly. |
| “On the mean, people check their phones every 10 minutes.” | Typically, people check their phones every 10 minutes. |
| “The mean life expectancy in this country is 80 years.” | The average life expectancy is 80 years. |
| “What’s the mean commute time to work?” | What’s the average travel time to work? |
| “The mean number of students in each class is 25.” | The average class size is 25 students. |
| “The mean salary for this position is $60,000.” | The average salary for this role is $60,000. |
| “On the mean, people drink two cups of coffee a day.” | Typically, people drink two cups of coffee daily. |
| “The mean score on the driving test is 85.” | The average score on the driving test is 85. |
Unkindness/Cruelty Examples
The following table provides examples of “mean” used to describe someone who is unkind or cruel. These examples highlight the negative connotations associated with this particular usage.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “He was being mean to his younger brother.” | He was behaving unkindly towards his brother. |
| “She said some mean things to her friend.” | She made hurtful remarks to her friend. |
| “Don’t be so mean; try to be more compassionate.” | Avoid being unkind and show more empathy. |
| “The bully was mean to all the other kids.” | The bully treated the other children cruelly. |
| “It’s mean to make fun of someone’s appearance.” | It’s unkind to mock someone’s looks. |
| “Why are you being so mean to me?” | Why are you treating me with such unkindness? |
| “She didn’t mean to be mean, but her words came out wrong.” | She didn’t intend to be unkind, but her words were hurtful. |
| “He’s a mean person who enjoys hurting others.” | He’s an unkind individual who finds pleasure in causing pain. |
| “They were being mean and excluding her from the group.” | They were behaving unkindly by leaving her out. |
| “It’s mean to spread rumors about people.” | It’s unkind to circulate false information. |
| “He’s always mean to the new employees.” | He consistently treats new employees unkindly. |
| “She can be really mean when she’s angry.” | She tends to be unkind when she’s upset. |
| “It’s not right to be mean to animals.” | It’s unethical to treat animals cruelly. |
| “He didn’t mean to be mean, he was just stressed.” | He didn’t intend to be unkind, but he was under pressure. |
| “They were being mean by laughing at him.” | They were behaving unkindly by mocking him. |
| “She’s known for being a mean boss.” | She has a reputation for being an unkind supervisor. |
| “It’s mean to ignore someone when they’re talking to you.” | It’s unkind to disregard someone who is speaking. |
| “He didn’t mean to be mean, it was a misunderstanding.” | He didn’t intend to be unkind, there was a miscommunication. |
| “They were being mean by hiding his belongings.” | They were behaving unkindly by concealing his things. |
| “She’s a mean girl who likes to make others feel bad.” | She’s an unkind person who enjoys making others unhappy. |
| “It’s mean to judge people based on their appearance.” | It’s unkind to form opinions based on someone’s looks. |
| “He didn’t mean to be mean, he was just joking.” | He didn’t intend to be unkind, he was only kidding. |
| “They were being mean by spreading false rumors.” | They were behaving unkindly by circulating untrue stories. |
Usage Rules
The usage rules for “mean” depend on its intended meaning and grammatical function. When used as a verb to express intention, it’s often followed by the infinitive form of another verb (e.g., “I mean to go to the store”). When expressing meaning or significance, it can be followed by a noun clause or a prepositional phrase (e.g., “What does this word mean?” or “This means a lot to me”).
When used as an adjective to describe an average, it typically precedes the noun it modifies (e.g., “the mean score”). When used to describe someone who is unkind, it can be used both before the noun (e.g., “a mean person”) or after a linking verb (e.g., “He is mean“).
There are also idiomatic expressions with “mean” that have specific usage rules. For example, “by all means” means “certainly” or “of course,” and “mean well” means “to have good intentions.” Understanding these idiomatic expressions is crucial for mastering the nuances of “mean.”
Common Mistakes
One common mistake is confusing “mean” with “meant” or “meaning”. “Meant” is the past tense and past participle of “mean,” while “meaning” is a noun. For example, it’s incorrect to say “I mean to do it yesterday”; the correct form is “I meant to do it yesterday.”
Another mistake is misusing “mean” when referring to averages. For example, saying “The mean of the numbers are…” is incorrect; it should be “The mean of the numbers is…” because “mean” in this context refers to a single value.
Finally, sometimes learners confuse the “unkind” meaning of “mean” with other adjectives that describe negative behavior. While “mean” implies deliberate unkindness, words like “rude” or “impolite” might describe unintentional or less severe behaviors.
Here’s a table illustrating common mistakes:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| I mean to do it yesterday. | I meant to do it yesterday. | Using the correct tense of the verb. |
| The mean of the numbers are 10. | The mean of the numbers is 10. | Using the correct verb agreement. |
| He is a very meaning person. | He is a very mean person. | Using the correct adjective form. |
| She meaned to help. | She meant to help. | Using the correct past tense. |
| What means this? | What does this mean? | Using the correct form of the verb. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of the metaphorical uses of “mean” with these practice exercises. Identify the type of “mean” used in each sentence and provide a brief explanation.
Exercise 1: Identify the type of “mean”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The red sky at night meant fair weather tomorrow. | Meaning/Significance: The red sky symbolized good weather. |
| 2. I didn’t mean to spill your coffee. | Intention/Purpose: The speaker didn’t intend to cause the spill. |
| 3. The mean score on the exam was 75. | Average/Mathematical: The average score was 75. |
| 4. He was being incredibly mean to the new employee. | Unkindness/Cruelty: He was behaving unkindly. |
| 5. A closed door meant privacy and solitude. | Meaning/Significance: The door symbolized seclusion. |
| 6. She meant to send the email, but she forgot. | Intention/Purpose: She intended to send the email. |
| 7. The mean number of sunny days per year is 200. | Average/Mathematical: The average number of sunny days is 200. |
| 8. It’s mean to laugh at someone’s mistakes. | Unkindness/Cruelty: It’s unkind to mock someone’s errors. |
| 9. The handshake meant they had reached an agreement. | Meaning/Significance: The handshake symbolized a deal. |
| 10. They meant to create a welcoming environment. | Intention/Purpose: Their goal was to foster a friendly atmosphere. |
Exercise 2: Fill in the blanks with the correct form of “mean”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. What does this symbol _______? | mean |
| 2. I _______ to call you yesterday, but I got busy. | meant |
| 3. He is a very _______ person. | mean |
| 4. The _______ temperature in January is quite cold. | mean |
| 5. I didn’t _______ to hurt your feelings. | mean |
| 6. What is the _______ of life? | meaning |
| 7. She _______ well, even though her advice was bad. | meant |
| 8. It’s _______ to exclude someone from the game. | mean |
| 9. The clouds _______ rain. | mean |
| 10. By all _______, come visit us soon! | means |
Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences using a metaphor with ‘mean’.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The dark clouds indicated that a storm was approaching. | The dark clouds meant a storm was approaching. |
| 2. His silence expressed his disagreement with the proposal. | His silence meant he disagreed with the proposal. |
| 3. The red rose symbolized love and passion. | The red rose meant love and passion. |
| 4. Her tears showed that she was deeply hurt. | Her tears meant she was deeply hurt. |
| 5. The eagle symbolizes freedom and courage. | The eagle means freedom and courage. |
| 6. The handshake symbolized a mutual understanding. | The handshake meant they had reached an agreement. |
| 7. The empty chair indicated that someone was missing. | The empty chair meant someone was missing. |
| 8. The flickering candle suggested their hope was fading. | The flickering candle meant their hope was fading. |
| 9. The dove symbolizes peace. | The dove means peace. |
| 10. A rainbow after the rain symbolized a new beginning. | A rainbow after the rain meant a new beginning. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, exploring the etymology and historical usage of “mean” can provide deeper insights. The word has Germanic roots and has evolved significantly over time, with its various meanings branching out from a central concept of “intention” or “significance.”
Another advanced topic is the use of “mean” in literary analysis. Analyzing how authors employ “mean” metaphorically can reveal subtle themes and character motivations.
For example, a character’s repeated use of “mean” to describe others could indicate their own insecurities or biases.
Finally, exploring cross-linguistic comparisons of how different languages express the concept of “mean” can be fascinating. Some languages might use entirely different words for the various meanings of “mean,” highlighting cultural differences in how these concepts are perceived.
FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between “mean,” “meant,” and “meaning”?
A1: “Mean” is the base form of the verb, used in the present tense (e.g., “What does this word mean?”). “Meant” is the past tense and past participle (e.g., “I meant to call you”). “Meaning” is a noun referring to the significance or definition of something (e.g., “What is the meaning of life?”).
Q2: How can I tell if “mean” is being used metaphorically?
A2: Look for instances where the literal definition of “mean” doesn’t quite fit the context. If the word is being used to imply something deeper, symbolize an idea, or describe something beyond its basic definition, it’s likely being used metaphorically.
Q3: When is it appropriate to use “mean” to describe someone’s behavior?
A3: Use “mean” to describe someone’s behavior when they are deliberately unkind, cruel, or hurtful. It implies a conscious intention to cause harm or distress.
Q4: What are some synonyms for “mean” when used to describe unkindness?
A4: Synonyms include cruel, unkind, malicious, spiteful, nasty, and heartless. The best synonym will depend on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Q5: How do you calculate the “mean” in mathematics?
A5: To calculate the mean (average), add up all the numbers in a set and then divide by the total number of values in the set. For example, the mean of 2, 4, and 6 is (2 + 4 + 6) / 3 = 4.
Q6: Is it always negative to call someone ‘mean’?
A6: Yes, calling someone “mean” is almost always negative. It suggests they are intentionally unkind or cruel, which is generally considered undesirable behavior. There might be rare, humorous contexts where it’s used playfully, but those are exceptions.
Q7: Can “mean” be used in a positive way?
A7: While rare, “mean” can be part of positive idioms like “mean well,” which indicates good intentions, even if actions are misguided. However, the adjective form describing unkindness is almost always negative.
Q8: What is the difference between ‘average’ and ‘mean’?
A8: In everyday language, ‘average’ and ‘mean’ are often used interchangeably to refer to the typical value in a set of numbers. However, in statistics, ‘mean’ specifically refers to the arithmetic mean (the sum of values divided by the number of values), while ‘average’ can refer to other measures of central tendency like the median or mode.
Conclusion
Understanding the various metaphorical uses of “mean” is essential for effective communication and comprehension in English. From expressing meaning and intention to describing averages and unkindness, the word “mean” plays a multifaceted role in the language.
By recognizing the different contexts and nuances, you can avoid common mistakes and use “mean” with greater accuracy and confidence.
Remember to pay attention to the surrounding words and the overall context
to fully grasp the intended meaning. With practice and attention to detail, you can master the art of using “mean” effectively and appropriately in your everyday communication.