A calm question can reveal where two interpretations differ.
The idea
Use What did you mean by ...? to ask about meaning. Explain your intention with I meant ..., then confirm the next step.
Examples
- I thought we had agreed to meet on Friday, not Thursday.
- When you said the room was free, did you mean all afternoon?
- I can see why my message sounded abrupt; I was in a hurry.
- I meant that the report needs another look, not that your work was poor.
- So you expected me to book the tickets, while I thought you would?
- Thanks for clearing that up. Let’s confirm the deadline in writing.
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Watch out
After did, use the base verb: What did you mean?, not What did you meant?
Try it yourself
Choose the phrase that checks someone’s meaning: ___ by “flexible”? (What did you mean / What did you meant)
Show answer or example answer
What did you mean
What did you mean asks the person to explain their intended meaning.
Complete the clarification: I meant Tuesday, ___ Wednesday. (not / no)
Show answer or example answer
not
not contrasts Tuesday with the mistaken day.
Choose the phrase that acknowledges the confusion: I can see ___ you misunderstood. (why / what)
Show answer or example answer
why
why introduces the reason for the misunderstanding.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the phrase that checks someone’s meaning: ___ by “flexible”? (What did you mean / What did you meant)
What did you mean
Complete the clarification: I meant Tuesday, ___ Wednesday. (not / no)
Choose the phrase that acknowledges the confusion: I can see ___ you misunderstood. (why / what)
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Describe a mix-up and agree on a practical next step.