1. As a verb:
* "Signifier": This is the most direct translation of "mean" in the sense of "to signify" or "to represent." For example: "Ce symbole signifie la paix." (This symbol means peace.)
* "Vouloir dire": This is a more common phrase to use when you want to say "mean" in the sense of "to intend" or "to express." For example: "Que voulez-vous dire par ça?" (What do you mean by that?)
* "Avoir l'intention de": This translates to "to intend" or "to have the intention of." For example: "J'avais l'intention de vous aider." (I meant to help you.)
2. As an adjective:
* "Méchant": This is the most common translation for "mean" in the sense of "cruel" or "unkind." For example: "C'est un garçon méchant." (He is a mean boy.)
* "Moyen": This means "average" or "ordinary." It is not a direct translation of "mean" but can be used in certain contexts. For example: "Il a une intelligence moyenne." (He has an average intelligence.)
* "Significatif": This means "significant" or "meaningful." It is not a direct translation of "mean" but can be used in certain contexts. For example: "Ce résultat est significatif." (This result is meaningful.)
3. As an interjection:
* "Hein ?": This is a French equivalent of "huh?" or "what?" It is used to express confusion or to ask for clarification. For example: "Tu as dit quoi ? Hein ?" (What did you say? Huh?)
To know which translation of "mean" is appropriate, you need to consider the context of the sentence.
For example:
* "What does this word mean?" would be translated as "Que veut dire ce mot ?"
* "He is a mean person." would be translated as "C'est une personne méchante."
I hope this helps!