what do you mean

The phrase "what do you mean" is commonly used to seek clarification or express surprise and disagreement in conversations.

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Definition

B1General Communication

(informal, common)A question asked to request clarification or additional details about a previous statement.

Example

  • What do you mean by 'it's complicated'?
  • Can you explain what you mean when you say 'we need to rethink our strategy'?

B1Emotional Reaction

(informal, common)A phrase used to express surprise, annoyance, or disagreement with a previous statement.

Example

  • What do you mean it was all my fault?
  • What do you mean you forgot the meeting?

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "what do you mean":

what do you saywhat do you wanthow do you dowhat do you know