means

[miːnz]

means Definition

  • 1an action or system by which a result is brought about; a method
  • 2financial resources
  • 3a way of achieving or expressing something

Using means: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "means" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The means of transportation in this city are buses and trains.

  • Example

    He used every means at his disposal to get the job done.

  • Example

    She had no means of supporting herself after losing her job.

  • Example

    The end justifies the means.

means Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for means

Idioms Using means

  • with the help of; by using

    Example

    The message was sent by means of a secure channel.

  • not at all; definitely not

    Example

    This is by no means the end of the story.

  • in any way possible

    Example

    We need to finish this project by any means necessary.

Phrases with means

  • used to give permission or to express willingness to have something happen

    Example

    By all means, let's go out for dinner tonight.

  • not at all; definitely not

    Example

    This is by no means the end of the story.

  • live beyond one's means

    spend more money than one can afford

    Example

    She was living beyond her means and had to declare bankruptcy.

Origins of means

from Old English 'mǣnan', meaning 'to mean'

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Summary: means in Brief

The term 'means' [miːnz] refers to a method or system by which a result is achieved, as well as financial resources. It can also denote a way of achieving or expressing something, as in 'The end justifies the means.' Phrases like 'by all means' and 'by no means' express permission and negation, respectively. Idioms like 'by means of' and 'by any means' denote the use of a particular method or any possible method, respectively.

How do native speakers use this expression?