1
Name a method
Identify how a goal is pursued.
Example
The dye was used as a means of tracing water flow.
as a means of
/æz ə ˈmiːnz əv/ · az uh MEENZ uvpurpose phrase
As a method or instrument for achieving a purpose.
Use as a means of to signal this exact relationship between ideas: as a method or instrument for achieving a purpose.
What as a means of Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Explain strategic use
Show that an action serves a broader objective.
Example
The levy began as a means of funding repairs.
3
Distinguish means from end
Frame one activity as instrumental rather than final.
Example
The interview is valuable as a means of locating further sources.
Use as a means of Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The dye was used as a means of tracing water flow.
The levy began as a means of funding repairs.
The interview is valuable as a means of locating further sources.
Precision Matters
As a means of overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
as a means of
vs.Signals as a method or instrument for achieving a purpose.
in order to
Means for the purpose of doing something.
as a means of
vs.Signals as a method or instrument for achieving a purpose.
as a result
Means because of what preceded; introduces a consequence.
as a means of
vs.Signals as a method or instrument for achieving a purpose.
account for
Means to explain something or constitute a specified portion of it.
as a means of
vs.Signals as a method or instrument for achieving a purpose.
by means of
Means using a particular method or instrument.
Test as a means of in Context
The dye is the method used to achieve the tracing objective.
1
Researchers released harmless dye into the stream ___ tracing the underground flow.