means

means [ minz ] (plural means) noun ***

1. ) count a method for doing or achieving something: WAY:

Information is not easily obtained by any other means.

an effective means for finding qualified job applicants

means of: What means of transportation is she using?

no means of doing something: We had no means of warning them.

the means by which: Testing is still the usual means by which students' progress is measured.

2. ) plural FORMAL the amount of money or the property, income, etc. that someone has:

have the means (to do something): Small businesses don't have the means to develop a sophisticated Internet presence.

beyond/within your means (=too expensive or not too expensive for you): Many medical expenses are beyond the means of poorer families.

according to someone's means: You are invited to contribute according to your means.

a man/woman of means (=with a lot of money): He had the well-dressed appearance of a man of means.

by all means SPOKEN

used for politely agreeing with someone, giving permission, or saying yes :

Do you mind if I invite a few friends? By all means.

by no means/not by any means

used as a way of emphasizing a negative statement:

It was by no means excellent, but still better than last year.

I wouldn't say I was an expert, not by any means.

fair means or foul

all possible methods, even unfair or dishonest ones

means to an end

a way of getting or achieving something you want:

Information management must be regarded as a means to an end.

means of production

factories, equipment, and materials used to produce goods