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what you meant vs what you mean

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'What you meant' is past tense and is used to ask about the meaning of something that was said or done in the past. 'What you mean' is present tense and is used to ask for clarification about something being said or done in the present.

Last updated: March 20, 2024 • 3323 views

what you meant

This phrase is correct and commonly used to ask about the meaning of something that was said or done in the past.

This phrase is used to inquire about the intended meaning of something that was previously communicated or done.

Examples:

Can you explain what you meant by that statement?
I'm not sure what you meant when you said you would handle it.

Show examples from the web [+]

Hi, The situation is two people are chatting. A:........ B: I didn't understand what you mean. or. B: I didn't understand what you meant. Are both these sentences ...
April 1985; “Oh, Is That What You Meant?” Previous · Next. Home. LDS.org · Magazines · Ensign · April 1985; “Oh, Is That What You Meant?” Previous · Next ...
Yes!! The sentence is correct. Concord Form: Ex: I didn't understand (past) what you meant (past). Ex: I don't understand (present) what you mean (present).
"What You Meant". As I took step number four. Into the close of your tenement. You cast your darkened eyes so low. Said we're cold as the step cement. But I just ...

Alternatives:

What did you mean?
What was your intention?
What were you trying to say?

what you mean

This phrase is correct and commonly used to ask for clarification about something being said or done in the present.

This phrase is used to seek clarification or further explanation about something that is currently being communicated or done.

Examples:

I don't understand what you mean by that.
Could you please explain what you mean?

Show examples from the web [+]

Jul 2, 2012 ... "What You Mean" Directed By @CodyFilms [Prod. By Young Chop] .... GOOD shittt NIGGA What YOU MEAN '' FUck haters '''' MIster dOe BOy.
May 29, 2012 ... This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Published on May 29, 2012. What You Mean - Big K.R.I.T. ft Ludacris ...
See what you mean · Why use us? Our clients · People · Contact. Our clients come to us with complexity. We bring them clear thinking & graphic communication ...
This is the British English definition of I see what you mean. View American English definition of I see what you mean. Change your default dictionary to ...

Alternatives:

What do you mean?
Could you clarify?
Can you elaborate?

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