Language Pet Peeves: That means vs That’s mean

Hey there, language lovers! It’s time for another jaunt through the delightful and sometimes perplexing world of words. Today, we’re untangling a pair that’s notorious for tripping up even the most vigilant among us: “That means” and “That’s mean.” So, let’s dive in and clear up the confusion, shall we?

“That Means” – The Bridge of Understanding

When we say “that means,” we’re on familiar territory. This phrase is a classic connector, a way to explain or clarify something. It’s like a linguistic bridge, helping us cross from confusion to understanding with just a few simple words. Picture yourself in a conversation, unraveling the mysteries of the universe or, more likely, deciphering the instructions for assembling furniture. You hit upon a revelation and declare, “Ah, that means we should’ve used the smaller screws from the beginning!” It’s your lightbulb moment, where everything clicks into place.

“That’s Mean” – The Callout of Unkindness

Switch gears with me to “That’s mean.” Notice the apostrophe s, bringing “that” and “is” together for a different kind of rendezvous. Here, we’re not bridging gaps in understanding; we’re calling out unkindness. “That’s mean” is a judgment call, a way to label an action or word as harsh, unkind, or just plain nasty. Imagine your friend snatches the last piece of pizza and laughs in your face. Your response? “Dude, that’s mean.” It’s a simple phrase, but it packs a punch, conveying disappointment, disapproval, or hurt.

Why the Mix-Up?

So, why do these two get jumbled in the first place? At first glance, they seem distinct enough, right? Well, the confusion often stems from the speed of speech and the slippery nature of contractions. When we’re talking fast, “that’s mean” can sound suspiciously like “that means,” especially to untrained ears. Plus, the English language loves to play tricks on us, with its homophones, homonyms, and other linguistic quirks.

Keeping Them Straight

Here’s a quick tip to keep them straight: If you’re about to explain or clarify something, pause for a second and mentally prepare your bridge – you’re in “that means” territory. If you’re about to express disapproval or call out unkind behavior, remember the apostrophe s. It’s your clue that you’re dealing with “that’s mean.”

In Conclusion

Understanding the difference between “that means” and “that’s mean” can save you from misunderstandings and help you communicate more effectively. Whether you’re building bridges of understanding or calling out unkindness, the right phrase makes all the difference. So, next time you find yourself in a linguistic labyrinth, remember these tips, and you’ll find your way out with ease.

Happy talking, and remember: the power of language is in your hands. Use it wisely, and always strive for clarity, kindness, and understanding. Until next time, keep exploring the vast and vibrant world of words!