What Does Mean In Spanish Translation

What Does “Mean” in Spanish Translation?

Introduction

“Mean” is a versatile word in English that can have different meanings depending on the context. When translating “mean” into Spanish, it is essential to understand the specific intended meaning in order to convey it accurately. In this article, we will explore various translations of “mean” in Spanish and provide examples to clarify their usage.

Translations of “Mean” in Spanish

“Significar”: This is the most common translation of “mean” in the sense of conveying or indicating a particular meaning. It is used to express the definition or significance of something. For example:

What does “libro” mean in English? – ¿Qué significa “libro” en inglés?
The red traffic light means you should stop. – El semáforo en rojo significa que debes parar.
“Querer decir”: This translation is used when “mean” implies an intention or an act of expressing or conveying a message. It is often used to explain the intended or implied meaning behind something. For example:

I didn’t say that to hurt your feelings, I mean it as constructive criticism. – No dije eso para lastimar tus sentimientos, quiero decirlo como crítica constructiva.
When she said she was tired, she really meant she wanted to go home. – Cuando dijo que estaba cansada, en realidad quería decir que quería irse a casa.
“Ser”: In some cases, “mean” can be translated as “ser” when referring to the essence, nature, or identity of something or someone. It indicates a state of being or representing a particular quality. For example:

Cats are mean animals. – Los gatos son animales malos.
The color red means danger. – El color rojo es sinónimo de peligro.
“Tener la intención de”: This translation is used when “mean” implies having an intention or purpose. It conveys the idea of intending to do something or having a specific goal in mind. For example:

I mean to finish this project by tomorrow. – Tengo la intención de terminar este proyecto para mañana.
He meant to apologize, but the opportunity never arose. – Tenía la intención de disculparse, pero nunca se presentó la oportunidad.

Conclusion

“Mean” can have different translations in Spanish depending on the intended meaning. Whether it is expressing the definition, conveying a message, indicating the essence, or denoting intention, understanding the specific context is crucial for accurate translation. By using the appropriate translations like “significar,” “querer decir,” “ser,” or “tener la intención de,” you can effectively convey the intended meaning of “mean” in Spanish.

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