a means to an end
noun phrase
: something done only to produce a desired result
Computers have always been a means to an end for [George] Lucas: telling stories.—
David A. Kaplan
David A. KaplanExamples of a means to an end in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In Germany, technology was never merely a means to an end.
—Amir Husain, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025
At first, algebraic techniques were a means to an end.
—Jordana Cepelewicz, Quanta Magazine, 30 Apr. 2025
Technology should be seen as a means to an end, enhancing human capabilities and addressing real-world challenges.
—Monica Kumar, Forbes, 16 Aug. 2024
The pattern is clear: AI works best as a means to an end.
—Ellie Victor, Forbes.com, 5 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for a means to an end
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Amir Husain, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025
At first, algebraic techniques were a means to an end.
—Jordana Cepelewicz, Quanta Magazine, 30 Apr. 2025
Technology should be seen as a means to an end, enhancing human capabilities and addressing real-world challenges.
—Monica Kumar, Forbes, 16 Aug. 2024
The pattern is clear: AI works best as a means to an end.
—Ellie Victor, Forbes.com, 5 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for a means to an end
Cite this Entry
“A means to an end.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/a%20means%20to%20an%20end. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.
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