Translation guide
The English word 'means' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: a method or way of doing something, financial resources, and the phrase 'by means of'. It also touches on the statistical term 'mean' and the expression 'means to an end'.
A method, instrument, or process used to achieve something.
What's the best means of transportation? · We need to find a means to solve this problem. · Email is a quick means of communication.
The most common and general word for 'means' or 'method'. Used for concrete actions or tools to achieve a goal.
交通手段は何ですか？
What means of transportation do you use?
目的を達成するための手段を考えよう。
Let's think of a means to achieve the goal.
Closer to 'method' or 'way'. Often interchangeable with 手段, but can sound slightly more systematic or procedural.
新しい学習方法を試してみた。
I tried a new means of studying.
A somewhat formal or literary word for 'means' or 'measure', often implying a resourceful solution.
問題解決の手立てを講じる。
To take measures as a means of solving the problem.
Money or financial ability to afford something.
She doesn't have the means to buy a house. · He lives beyond his means. · They are people of modest means.
Literally 'economic power'. The standard way to express financial means or ability to pay.
彼には家を買う経済力がない。
He doesn't have the means to buy a house.
Refers to financial resources or funds. Slightly formal, often used in legal or business contexts.
Means of living; ability to support oneself. Less common for general 'financial means'.
Using a particular method or instrument.
We communicated by means of sign language. · The load was lifted by means of a crane.
The most common way to say 'by means of'. Attach to a noun indicating the method or tool.
手話によってコミュニケーションをとった。
We communicated by means of sign language.
Simple particle meaning 'by' or 'using'. More casual and direct than によって.
クレーンで荷物を持ち上げた。
We lifted the load by means of a crane.
Formal/literary 'using' or 'by means of'. Often in written instructions or academic contexts.
新しい技術を用いて問題を解決した。
We solved the problem by means of new technology.
The mathematical average of a set of numbers.
Calculate the mean of these numbers. · The mean temperature in July is 25°C.
The standard word for 'average' or 'mean'. Used in everyday and technical contexts.
これらの数字の平均を計算してください。
Please calculate the mean of these numbers.
Specifically 'mean value' or 'average value'. More technical than 平均 alone.
Something done only to achieve a desired result, not for its own sake.
For him, the job was just a means to an end. · Education should not be seen merely as a means to an end.
Direct translation: 'a means for a purpose'. Natural and clear.
彼にとってその仕事は目的のための手段に過ぎなかった。
For him, the job was just a means to an end.
Means to an end; expedient. Often has a nuance of a temporary or convenient measure.
それは単なる方便だ。
That's just a means to an end.
The English word 'means' (method) is not the same as 'meaning' (significance). In Japanese, 'meaning' is 意味 (いみ). Do not use 意味 for 'means'.
この言葉の意味は何ですか？
What is the meaning of this word?
Both can translate 'means' or 'method'. 手段 emphasizes the instrumentality or tool-like aspect, while 方法 is more about the procedure or way. In many cases they are interchangeable, but 手段 is more common for 'means of transportation/communication', and 方法 for 'way of doing something'.
目的は手段を正当化する。
The end justifies the means.
A well-known proverb. The Japanese version is a direct translation and widely understood.
彼女は資産家だ。
She is a woman of means.
Literally 'she is a wealthy person'. 'Woman of means' implies wealth.
He has sufficient means.
彼女は自分の生活力で暮らしている。
She lives by her own means.
平均値を求めなさい。
Find the mean value.