What does the phrase "don't be mean" mean?
What is "don't be mean"? Is it an informal phrase?
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Dear Columbus, First of all, I should congratulate you for asking this question, because it shows that you have a good command of the language. You have asked two questions, so let me answer them one by one: 1. What is "don't be mean"? It is an imperative clause. * Phrase: It is a part of a clause. * Clause: It is a part of a sentence. can be used to give commands, advice, etc. * Sentence: It is a set of words that is complete in itself and it conveys a statement, a command, an exclamation, etc. How can I know if a bunch of words is a phrase or a clause? a. If it contains both a subject + a verb AND it makes sense on its own then it is a clause. b. If it doesn't have both a subject and a verb OR one of them, AND it doesn't make sense, then it is a phrase. "Don't be mean" = don't be unkind/cruel You can be unkind verbally, physically, or through your body language. 2. Is it an informal phrase? It is not a phrase. It is an imperative clause. And Yes! It is usually informal.
This means, do not be rude, angry or insulting and it is usually used when you are referring to someone who has said something that was not acceptable to another person
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Means be friendly and kind
It can be used in both formal and informal context. However, you would have to elongate the word form "do not" and not "don't" as this contraction is only used in an informal situation. As for it's meaning, the phrase informs the receiver to not be "wicked", "unkind", "unpleasant." Hope this helps😊
- Alda MyftariEnglish Teacher
It means do not be rude
Well, it's easy. When you want someone not to be unkind or cruel :)
It is a negative phrase of not being polite to someone
Mean actually means rude. giving a mean comment means you are being rude to people.
- Malak NaeemTeaching languages
Like don't be selfish, and "mean" here meant don't be harsh or doing something bad., Feel free to contact me
Hi Columbus, I hope you have found the answer by now. We are all here to help you.
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