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MUSCOVITE Posted 14 years ago
Vocabulary

How do you mean?

Hi,

quote ---

Person A -- 'In three hours' time, I'll be a free man.'
Person B -- 'How do you mean?' (=used to ask someone to explain what they have just said)

---unquote

What if I change 'how' to 'what' in Person B's question:


"How What do you mean?'

If you could comment on the difference, if any?

thank you!


mus-te
  

Top answer

In my opinion, and within the context you have given, "How do you mean" is colloquial, borderline-poor English. "What do you mean" is better and can be used in all situations. " is not formal or literary.

— JohnParis

  • In my opinion, and within the context you have given, "How do you mean" is colloquial, borderline-poor English.
  • "What do you mean" is better and can be used in all situations.
  • " is not formal or literary.
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2 Answers
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In my opinion, and within the context you have given, "How do you mean" is colloquial, borderline-poor English.
"What do you mean" is better and can be used in all situations. "How..." is not formal or literary.
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Hello John,
Thanks for the response! Emotion: yes
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