What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mean
Example
What does the word 'procrastination' mean? [mean: verb]
Example
I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. [mean: verb]
Example
The mean temperature for this month is 25 degrees Celsius. [mean: noun]
signify
Example
The red traffic light signifies that you must stop. [signify: verb]
Example
The handshake signifies the beginning of a business deal. [signifies: third person singular present]
Example
The rose signifies love and affection. [signify: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mean is more common in everyday language, while signify is more often used in academic or literary contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between mean and signify?
Signify is more formal than mean and is often used in academic or literary contexts, while mean is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
