When do you use "I mean"? I see this a lot
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
"I mean" is used to clarify or justify what someone says with an explanation or thought. But it's also used to emphasise a statement, like it is here, and not necessarily to say the direct "meaning" of something. So it can be interjected within sentences to emphasise what you're saying and as a sentence filler. Sometimes it's placed at the end of the statement to emphasise what was already said or the topic. Ex: I really like pizza. But, I mean, that pasta dish was so good. Ex: To clarify, I mean that I personally don't like surfing. Not that I don't like surfing at all. Ex: I mean, what she said was really hurtful. => emphasis and clarity Ex: I mean, come on. Did you have to leave the party early? Ex: I can't believe you dyed your hair. I mean, wow.
