What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
means
Example
Studying hard is the means to getting good grades. [means: noun]
Example
She used various means to complete the project on time. [means: plural noun]
method
Example
The scientific method involves observation, hypothesis, and experimentation. [method: noun]
Example
He developed a new method for teaching math to young children. [method: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Method is more commonly used than means in everyday language. Method is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while means is less common and may be used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between means and method?
While means can be associated with a more formal or technical tone, method is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
