Dictionary
Words, grammatical forms and meanings linked to the ontology.
mean to say en · VERB
Meanings
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To imply or intend to convey with one's words; used to correct or clarify one's previous utterance, or to seek such clarification.
"You wicked boy, do you mean to say you've left those poor children there alone in the pigstye?"
1919, H. H. Munro, “Hyacinth”, in The Toys of Peace and Other Papers:"[…] It is a match that must give universal satisfaction. In short, it is a kind of thing that" — lowering his voice to an important whisper — "will be exceedingly welcome to all parties." Recollecting himself, however, he added, "That is, I mean to say—your friends are all truly anxious to see you well settled; Fanny particularly […]"
1811, Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility:
Forms