"is meant" vs "is understood"

Question

"is meant" vs "is understood"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Is understood' is used when referring to something that is comprehended or interpreted by someone, while 'is meant' is used when referring to the intended meaning or purpose behind something.

Last Updated: April 01, 2024

Use 'is meant' when you want to convey the intended meaning or purpose behind something. It indicates the underlying message or significance that the speaker or writer is trying to convey.

Examples:

His words were harsh, but I know they were meant to help me improve.
The painting is meant to evoke feelings of nostalgia.
The gesture was meant as a token of appreciation.
The question is meant to provoke critical thinking.
The delay in response was not meant to cause any inconvenience.

Alternatives:

is intended
is supposed
is designed
is purposed
is aimed

Use 'is understood' when you want to express that something is comprehended or interpreted by someone. It indicates that a particular meaning or message has been grasped.

Examples:

The instructions given by the teacher are understood by all the students.
Her silence was understood as a sign of disapproval.
The implications of his words were not fully understood at the time.
The contract is understood to be valid for one year.
The message was clearly understood by the audience.

Alternatives:

is comprehended
is interpreted
is clear
is grasped
is perceived

Answer 1

is meant

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to the intended meaning or purpose behind something.

Answer 2

is understood

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to something that is comprehended or interpreted by someone.

"is meant" vs "is understood"

is meant

is understood

Related Comparisons