Collocation
What do you mean by that?
To ask for clarification or explanation about something someone has said or done, often implying surprise, confusion, or a subtle challenge.
Definition
'What do you mean by that?' is a common English collocation. To ask for clarification or explanation about something someone has said or done, often implying surprise, confusion, or a subtle challenge.
What do you + mean + by that?
“When you said 'we need to talk,' what did you mean by that?”
Examples
- You said the plan was 'fluid,' but what did you mean by that exactly?
- He just smiled mysteriously. I wish I knew what he meant by that.
- If you say it's 'impossible,' what do you mean by that, precisely?
Show more examples
- The artist's cryptic message left many wondering what he truly meant by that statement.
- When you called me a 'wise guy,' what did you mean by that?
- They hinted at a 'future change.' What did they mean by that vague remark?
- Considering the gravity of the situation, I had to ask him, 'What do you mean by that?'
- She whispered 'be careful.' What did she mean by that, I wonder?
- He said 'it's done.' What did he mean by that?
- After her vague comment, I paused and asked, 'What do you mean by that?'
Learn this in a path
More at A2 level
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