What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intend
Example
I intend to finish my homework before dinner. [intend: verb]
Example
Her intention was to become a doctor. [intention: noun]
mean
Example
What does this word mean? [mean: verb]
Example
His tone of voice meant that he was angry. [meant: past tense verb]
Example
The heavy rain meant that the game was cancelled. [meant: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mean is more commonly used than intend in everyday language. Mean is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while intend is more specific and less common.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intend and mean?
Both intend and mean can be used in formal and informal contexts, but intend may be considered slightly more formal due to its specificity and precision.
