What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mean
Example
It's not nice to mean to others. [mean: adjective]
Example
The mean of the test scores was 85. [mean: noun]
Example
What do you mean by that? [mean: verb]
indicate
Example
The sign indicated that the store was closed. [indicated: verb]
Example
Her tone of voice indicated that she was upset. [indicated: verb]
Example
The thermometer indicated a fever of 101 degrees. [indicated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indicate is more commonly used than mean in everyday language. Indicate is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while mean is less common and has a narrower range of usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between mean and indicate?
Both mean and indicate can be used in formal or informal contexts. However, indicate is more commonly used in formal writing or technical fields, while mean is more informal and conversational.
