Mean to do something is

[mlngvt]

Dear teacher,
I know mean to do something is to intend to do something but I don't know mean doing something. Please explain its meaning.
Thanks.

[Yankee]

Hi mlngvt

Did you see 'mean doing' in a specific sentence? If so, can you tell me what the sentence was?


The word 'mean' could simply be used to define or clarify a word or phrase you've just previously used.
For example:
"A quick and dirty solution is sufficient. By "quick and dirty" I mean solving the problem adequately and as fast as possible, without wasting time on insignificant details."

The words 'mean doing' could also have a meaning similar to "result in".
For example:
"Exceeding the speed limit could mean losing your driver's license."

Does that answer your question?

Amy
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Amy
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ESL teacher, translator, and a native speaker of American English

[mlngvt]

If we want to catch the 7.30 train, that will mean leaving the house at 6.00.
mean leaving: what does it mean? Does it indicate definition or result?
Please help me. Thanks.

[Alan]

Hi mlngvt,

This idea of mean suggests consequence in the sense of one thing will follow after another. The train leaves at 7.30 - we need time to travel to the station - we want to catch that train - so the consequence is that it is necessary to leave home at 6.00 .

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Phrasal Verbs/run