0
ESLBeginner Posted 16 years ago
Vocabulary

I mean you no harm

Hello, I don't understand the Grammar of this sentense: "I mean you no harm".

I know I could say "I mean no harm to you"; but how to understand "I mean you no harm"? is this a special grammar, or particular usage of "mean"?

Would you please help me on this question? Thank you in advance.
  

Top answer

It's the very nature of the verb mean itself that allows for this kind of sentence. In fact, when used in this way it is very similar to the verb wish. You can also say I'll do you no harm.

— Ivanhr

  • It's the very nature of the verb mean itself that allows for this kind of sentence.
  • In fact, when used in this way it is very similar to the verb wish.
  • You can also say I'll do you no harm.
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

2 Answers
0
It's the very nature of the verb mean itself that allows for this kind of sentence. In fact, when used in this way it is very similar to the verb wish.

You can also say I'll do you no harm.
0
0
Hi,

Consider a simpler case of direct and indirect objects.

Tom gave a gift to Mary.

Tome gave Mary a gift .



Now consider this case. The meaning of 'mean' here is 'intend, have as my purpose'.

I mean no harm to you.

I mean you no harm.



Do you think they are different? I don't.

0

Related Questions