What it means Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈhwɒtɪtˈmiːnz/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

1. An act or process of ascertaining or determining the significance or interpretation of something. 2. The underlying idea, message, or intention conveyed by a piece of writing, art, or other expression.

Examples

• She tried to find out what the poem meant, but the meaning was obscure.
• The song’s lyrics have been debated, and nobody knows what they mean.

Synonyms

• Interpretation
• Explanation
• Definition

Antonyms

• Misinterpretation
• Misunderstanding

Additional Information

Determining what something means involves analyzing the context, understanding the language, and making connections between the words or symbols used. This process can be influenced by various factors, including cultural background, personal experiences, and prior knowledge. In many cases, multiple interpretations of a message or text can be valid, and it’s up to the individual to decide what the meaning is.

The significance of what something means can have significant implications in different fields, such as law, literature, and science. In law, the interpretation of laws and contracts can have a profound impact on the outcome of cases. In literature, the meaning of a text can influence the way readers understand the story and characters. In science, the interpretation of data can shape our understanding of the world and the natural laws that govern it.

What it means can also be a subject of debate, and different people may have different perspectives on the same issue. This is particularly true in fields such as philosophy, where the interpretation of complex ideas and concepts can be open to multiple interpretations.

Etimology

The phrase “what it means” has its roots in the concept of interpretation and understanding. The word “means” itself was first used in the 14th century to describe the medium or method used to convey a message. Over time, the phrase “what it means” evolved to encompass the idea of interpreting and understanding the significance or intention behind a message or expression.

Usage Notes

The phrase “what it means” is commonly used in situations where the significance or interpretation of something is unclear or open to debate. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and its usage can vary depending on the context and purpose of the conversation.

Cultural References

The concept of what something means has been explored in literature, art, and popular culture. In literature, works such as James Joyce’s “Ulysses” and T.S. Eliot’s “The Waste Land” have explored the complexities of interpretation and meaning. In art, works such as Rene Magritte’s “The Treachery of Images” have challenged our perceptions of reality and the meaning of images.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Get to the bottom of something
• Get to the root of the problem
• Uncover the truth

Related Words or Phrases

• Meaningful
• Significant
• Relevant

Collocations

• Try to find out what it means
• What does it mean to you?
• It means a lot to me

Frequency of Use

The phrase “what it means” is commonly used in everyday conversation, particularly in situations where people are trying to understand or interpret something. It is also frequently used in formal and informal writing, including literature, academic papers, and social media.

Common Misspellings

• Whats it mean
• What dose it mean
• Whats does it mean