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.’
What does the word “means” mean?
Merriam-Webster defines means as, “an action or system by which a result is brought about; a method.”
Examples with “means” in sentences
1. Interest rates are used as a means of controlling borrowing.
2. 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.
3. The means is evident: to diminish the quantity of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere from fuel combustion. (Asia News)
4. Being objective means not telling everybody whose side you are on.
5. 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?
Sources
- Definition of means.
- Sentences using means.
- Origin of means.
