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:
- Mean often implies something average or unkind, think of it in terms of math or behavior.
- Mien refers to a person's look or manner, related to their demeanor or attitude
- Remember that mien is less commonly used; it has a more specific meaning referring to appearance or expression.
- Think of mean as something that can relate to numbers or describe someone's nature or intent.
- Mien has the same pronunciation, but is distinct as it represents external expression rather than internal nature.
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