Introduction
When someone asks you "What does this mean?" in English, they are asking for the definition or explanation of something. It could be a word, a phrase, a symbol, or any other form of communication that they do not understand. In this article, we will explore different ways to answer this question and provide examples for each.
Answering "What does this mean?"
1. Give a Definition
The most straightforward way to answer this question is to give a definition of the word or phrase in question. For example, if someone asks you what "surreal" means, you could say: "Surreal means having the qualities of surrealism, which is a 20th-century art movement that emphasizes the subconscious and irrational aspects of the human mind."
2. Provide Context
Sometimes, the meaning of a word or phrase can only be understood in the context of a particular situation or conversation. In this case, you can provide additional information to help the person understand. For example, if someone asks you what "I'm over the moon" means, you could say: "It means I'm very happy or excited. I just got a promotion at work!"
3. Use Examples
Another way to help someone understand the meaning of something is to provide examples. This can be especially helpful for abstract concepts or complex ideas. For example, if someone asks you what "empathy" means, you could say: "Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. For example, if your friend is going through a tough time, you might feel empathy for them and offer your support."
4. Explain the Symbolism
Sometimes, the meaning of something is not immediately obvious because it is symbolic or metaphorical. In this case, you can explain the symbolism to help the person understand. For example, if someone asks you what a dove represents, you could say: "In many cultures, a dove represents peace, love, and purity. It is often used as a symbol of the Holy Spirit in Christianity."
5. Break it Down
If the person is struggling to understand a complex idea or concept, you can break it down into smaller, more manageable parts. This can help them see the connections between different elements and understand the overall meaning. For example, if someone asks you to explain the concept of "supply and demand," you could say: "Supply refers to the amount of a product or service that is available, while demand refers to how much people want or need that product or service. When supply is low and demand is high, prices tend to go up. When supply is high and demand is low, prices tend to go down."
6. Ask for Context
Sometimes, the best way to understand the meaning of something is to ask for more context. This can help you understand the situation or conversation better and provide a more accurate answer. For example, if someone asks you what "that's a wrap" means, you could say: "It usually means that something is finished or completed, but I would need more context to give you a more specific answer."
Conclusion
When someone asks you "What does this mean?" in English, there are many ways to answer the question. You can give a definition, provide context, use examples, explain the symbolism, break it down, or ask for more context. By using these strategies, you can help the person understand the meaning of the word, phrase, or symbol in question.