What is the English Translation of “Mean”?

When learning a new language, one of the first things we often want to know is how to translate certain words or phrases. In this article, we will explore the English translation of the word “mean”. We will delve into its various meanings, usage in different contexts, and provide examples to help you better understand its nuances. So, let’s get started!

Mean as an Adjective

As an adjective, “mean” can have several different meanings in English. Let’s take a look at some of the most common ones:

1. Cruel or unkind: When someone is described as “mean” in this sense, it means they are not nice or considerate towards others. For example, “She was mean to her classmates and never shared her toys.”

2. Stingy or unwilling to spend money: This usage of “mean” refers to someone who is not generous with their money or possessions. For instance, “He’s too mean to buy a round of drinks for his friends.”

3. Poor or of low quality: When something is described as “mean” in this context, it means it is not of good quality or is lacking in some way. For example, “The hotel room was mean and cramped.”

4. Difficult or challenging: In certain contexts, “mean” can be used to describe something that is difficult or challenging to deal with. For instance, “The math problem was really mean, and I couldn’t solve it.”

5. Intending to convey a particular meaning: “Mean” can also be used to describe something that is intended to convey a specific message or idea. For example, “The poem had a deep and meaningful message.”

Mean as a Verb

As a verb, “mean” can have different meanings and uses. Let’s explore some of them:

1. Intend or have as a purpose: When used in this sense, “mean” refers to having a specific intention or purpose behind an action. For example, “What do you mean by that comment?”

2. Signify or represent: In certain contexts, “mean” can be used to indicate or represent something. For instance, “The red traffic light means you need to stop.”

3. Imply or suggest: “Mean” can also be used to suggest or imply something indirectly. For example, “His tone of voice meant that he was angry.”

Mean as a Noun

As a noun, “mean” has a specific meaning in mathematics. It refers to the average value of a set of numbers. For example, “The mean of 5, 7, and 9 is 7.”

Usage and Examples

Now that we have explored the different meanings of “mean” in English, let’s look at some usage examples to further clarify its usage:

1. Adjective:

• She has a mean streak and often says hurtful things to others.
• Don’t be so mean! Share your toys with your sister.
• The restaurant had mean service, and the food was disappointing.

2. Verb:

• What do you mean by that statement? Can you clarify?
• The red light means you should stop your car.
• His silence meant that he didn’t agree with the decision.

Summary Table

Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
Adjective	Cruel or unkind	She was mean to her classmates and never shared her toys.
Adjective	Stingy or unwilling to spend money	He’s too mean to buy a round of drinks for his friends.
Adjective	Poor or of low quality	The hotel room was mean and cramped.
Adjective	Difficult or challenging	The math problem was really mean, and I couldn’t solve it.
Adjective	Intending to convey a particular meaning	The poem had a deep and meaningful message.
Verb	Intend or have as a purpose	What do you mean by that comment?
Verb	Signify or represent	The red traffic light means you need to stop.
Verb	Imply or suggest	His tone of voice meant that he was angry.
Noun	Average value in mathematics	The mean of 5, 7, and 9 is 7.

Editor’s Opinion

In conclusion, the word “mean” in English has various meanings depending on its usage as an adjective, verb, or noun. It can refer to someone who is cruel or unkind, stingy with money, or something of low quality. As a verb, it can indicate intention, represent something, or imply a message. In mathematics, “mean” specifically refers to the average value of a set of numbers. It is important to consider the context in which “mean” is used to fully understand its intended meaning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can “mean” be used as a noun in English?

Yes, “mean” can be used as a noun in mathematics to refer to the average value of a set of numbers.

2. Is “mean” always negative when used as an adjective?

No, “mean” can have both negative and neutral connotations depending on the context in which it is used.

3. What is the opposite of “mean” when used to describe someone’s behavior?

The opposite of “mean” would be kind or considerate.

4. Can “mean” be used to describe objects or only people?

“Mean” can be used to describe both objects and people. It can refer to the quality or condition of an object.

5. Are there any idiomatic expressions or phrases that use the word “mean”?

Yes, there are several idiomatic expressions that use the word “mean”, such as “mean business” (to be serious or determined), “mean streak” (a tendency to be unkind), and “mean well” (to have good intentions).

Sources:

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary
• Oxford English Dictionary
• Cambridge Dictionary
• Collins Dictionary