The phrase “What means?” is typically an informal or non-standard way of asking for the definition or explanation of a word, phrase, or concept. It’s a shortened form of “What does (something) mean?” and may be encountered in casual conversation or informal communication.
Here’s a breakdown of its use:
- Contextual Understanding:
– Often used when someone encounters a term or expression they are unfamiliar with.
– Seeks clarification or further detail to grasp the concept in question.
- Common Usage:
– Although not grammatically standard in English, similar constructs are prevalent in language learning or non-native speakers.
- Example Scenarios:
– If someone reads a text with a term they don’t know, they might ask, “What means ‘serendipity’?” instead of the full “What does ‘serendipity’ mean?”
Understanding the intention behind “What means?” involves recognizing its role in communication, even if it doesn’t adhere to formal grammatical rules.