Meant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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meant
[ment ]
Definitions
in a specific situation
Intended to communicate or indicate a particular meaning or idea; significant.
Synonyms
designed, intended, intended, purposed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| meant |
Used when referring to something that was supposed to happen or is appropriate for a specific purpose.
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| intended |
Appropriate when discussing the purpose or plan behind an action or object. Often used in formal situations.
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| designed |
Best used when talking about something that was specifically created or planned for a purpose.
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| purposed |
Similar to 'intended', but is less commonly used and can sound more formal or old-fashioned.
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Examples of usage
- It was meant to be a surprise for her birthday.
- The painting was meant to represent the beauty of nature.
intend to do something
Have in mind as a purpose or goal; intend.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| meant |
Used when expressing the purpose or reason behind something, often reflecting intention after an event has occurred.
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| intend |
Used when talking about planning or deciding to do something, often emphasizing the thought or decision before any action is taken.
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| plan |
Best for general intentions or preparations for future actions. It can involve detailed steps or a general outline of what one wants to achieve.
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| aim |
Best used when discussing a clear goal or objective. Often associated with a sense of direction or purpose, and can imply effort and focus.
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| design |
Appropriate when referring to a plan or purpose that involves creativity, structure, or specific arrangements. Often used in contexts related to architecture, fashion, technology, etc.
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Examples of usage
- She meant to call you back later.
- He meant to finish the project by the end of the week.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Language and Communication
- In linguistics, 'meant' helps establish the difference between literal and implied meanings in conversations.
- It often plays a key role in creating clarity in communication, indicating explicit intentions and feelings.
- Misunderstandings can arise when the intended meaning isn't clear, showcasing the word's importance.
Cultural References
- Songs and poems frequently use 'meant' to express themes of love and destiny, illustrating deep emotional connections.
- The phrase 'meant to be' is common in romantic narratives, suggesting fate plays a role in relationships.
- In storytelling, understanding what characters meant can drive the plot and reveal motivations.
Psychology
- The concept of intentions is significant in psychology, impacting how people perceive actions and motivations.
- Understanding what someone meant can help in conflict resolution, as it bridges misinterpretations.
- Intentions serve as a powerful motivator in human behavior, influencing decisions and relationships.
Origin of 'meant'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'metan,' which means 'to intend or have in mind.'
- In Middle English, it transformed into 'meinten,' reflecting a sense of purpose or intention.
- The usage of this word has evolved through the centuries, remaining central in discussions of intention.
The word 'meant' originated from the Old English word 'gemæne', which means common or shared. Over time, its meaning evolved to convey the idea of intention or purpose. The word has been used in English language for centuries to express the idea of having a particular meaning or purpose.
See also: demean, demeaning, mean, meaningless, meanly, meanness, means, meantime, meanwhile, meanwhilst.