From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary EnglishI meanI meana) EXPLAINused when explaining or giving an example of something, or when pausing to think about what you are going to say next You’re more of an expert than me. I mean, you’ve got all that experience. It’s just not right. I mean, it’s unfair isn’t it? b) CORRECTused to quickly correct something you have just said She plays the violin, I mean the viola, really well. → mean
Examples from the Corpus
I mean• Very few people have a career of great longevity, constancy and consistency in films. I mean a real career.• So she said OEAll right, sir. I mean Charles.• Ted seems kind of lazy. I mean, he never offers to help and he just lies in front of the TV.• My father was a heavy drinker, I mean, he used to drink a quart of scotch a day.• I mean, he was nice and everything, but I just didn't find him attractive.• I, I mean I need it.• I'm afraid I can't help you. What I mean is that I'm not a detective, and I don't solve crimes.• I just bought some apricots, no, I mean peaches.• What is she, I mean, she knows it turns me on.• I was never a political animal. I mean the Journalists had that sort of job to do.• If there is a next time I mean to win. 