Friday Class - August 7th - I mean to ....

Today we meet the English expression “I meant to”. “Meant” is the past tense of “mean”, and I know you all know what “mean” means. (Sorry, there are a lot of “means” in that sentence!) I guess you often ask, “What does this word mean?” or you say “Now I understand what the sentence means”.

Now look at these sentences:

I meant to go to the supermarket, but I did not have any money with me.

I meant to do my English homework, but my friend visited, and we talked all evening.

I meant to speak to my mother, but she was not at home when I telephoned.

Renato probably should say:

I meant to go to J.B's home , but I really didn't know if he would be there.

“I meant to..” means “it was my plan, or my intention to..” do something. And it is an expression we often use when we have to explain why we have not done something! “I meant to send her a birthday card, but I could not find a good one.” “I meant to meet Danniele in town, but I had to stay late preparing Cadesc's class .”

Why am I explaining about “I meant to..” in this class? Well, This expression is very useful and I meant to teach you , but I really didn't have any idea whether you knew it or not. I have been worried. I meant to be a better teacher , but sometimes I forget you guys are teacher too. lol!
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Everyday Conversation

Renato: Er, excuse me. I need some help...

André: Oh, yes, sure.

Renato: Does this train go to Barra Funda?

André: No, it doesn't. This is the green line. Barra Funda... Do you have a subway map?

Renato: Sure, here it is.

André: Let's see... OK, this is where we are, Consolação. You have to take this train to Paraíso and then transfer to the blue line. Then you'll transfer again to the...

Renato: Wait. I'm sorry, where do I transfer?

André: At the Paraíso station.

Renato: Paraíso... Let me make a note. And then which train do I take?

André: Take the blue line, and then get off at the Sé station. That's S-E.

Renato: S-E. Are we almost there?

André: Almost. At Sé, take the red line. Barra Funda will be your 5th stop.

Renato: I think I got it. Paraiso, blue line, Sé, red line. Thanks!

André: No problem.