This idiom describes something that is not valuable in itself, but is used to achieve something else.
Here's a breakdown:
* Means: This refers to a method, tool, or way of achieving something.
* End: This refers to the goal or desired outcome.
Example:
"Going to college is a means to an end. The ultimate goal is to get a good job and be successful in life."
In this example:
* Means: Going to college
* End: Getting a good job and being successful
The idiom suggests that going to college itself is not the ultimate goal, but it's a necessary step to achieve something else.
Let me know if you have any other idioms you'd like explained!