Master confusing words with ease
Mean vs. Mien
Mean
/miːn/Examples:
She knew now that he meant to speak."Well, I have discovered the means of reconciling everything," cried Pelisson.The clock's hands said six, meaning eighteen.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
This word has no antonymsMien
/miːn/Examples:
Her stern mien intimidated everyone around her.With a joyous mien, he greeted all his guests.His thoughtful mien suggested deep contemplation.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- The word mean has several meanings including being unkind, an average or intends to convey something, while mien refers to a person's appearance or demeanor.
- Remember that mean has multiple meanings and can be used in various contexts, while mien is specific to describing someone's facial expression or manner.
- To differentiate, think of mean as versatile with more common use, whereas mien is less common and more specific to one’s attitude or look.
- When you see mean, consider if its describing attitude, math, or intention; when you see mien, think about someones appearance or expression.
- Mean can also be an adjective, noun, or verb depending on context, while mien is always a noun.
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