What’s the plural of “means”?
As a course of action, the noun means can be used as a plural or singular noun. However, the form remains unchanged between the singular and plural use case; i.e., ‘the best means of getting good grades is to study every day.’ Means in terms of wealth or finances, means is always used as a plural noun: ‘he is a man of great means and status.’
The best means to achieve this is hard work.
All means of communication were cut off.
What is the best mean to achieve this? (incorrect; ‘mean’ is not the singular form of ‘means’ as a method)
His means is substantial.
What does the word “means” mean?
Merriam-Webster defines means as, “an action or system by which a result is brought about; a method.”
“means,” associate its unchanging plural form with “jeans”—both words are plural even when referring to a single item. Then, note “means” as wealth is always plural.
Examples with “means” in sentences
| Word Form | Examples |
|---|---|
| Other | Interest rates are used as a means of controlling borrowing.
While Cynthia was proud of her son Randy’s athletic achievements, she always saw those abilities as a means to an end—not an end in itself. The means is evident: to diminish the quantity of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere from fuel combustion. (Asia News) Being objective means not telling everybody whose side you are on. The morality of a means depends upon whether the means is being employed at a time of imminent defeat or imminent victory. [Rules for Radicals, Saul Alinksy] |
Origin of the word means
From etymology online on means (n.):
|
Course of action,” late 14c., from mean (n.); sense of “wealth, resources at one’s disposal for accomplishing some object” is recorded by c. 1600. Compare French moyens, German Mittel. |
What’s the difference between they’re, their, and there?
Worksheet
When referring to a method or course of action, what is the singular form of the word “means”?
According to the post, when “means” refers to wealth or finances, it is always used as:
Which of the following is explicitly stated in the post as an incorrect way to use the word “mean” in relation to the noun “means” (method)?
When “means” refers to a method or methods, how do you determine if a singular or plural verb is needed?
Which of the following sentences is correct according to the post’s rules for “means” referring to wealth?
He is a person of modest .
The most effective reducing waste is recycling.
All possible escape were explored.
The best to achieve this is hard work.
His financial quite limited.
FAQs
What is the singular of “means”?
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Does “means” change form for plural?
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When is “means” always plural?
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Is “mean” the singular of “means”?
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What verb follows “means” for wealth?
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Yash, D. "What’s the Singular of Means?." Grammarflex, Jun 25, 2025, https://www.grammarflex.com/whats-the-singular-of-means/.
Sources
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Definition of means.
