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

Examples of a means to an end in a Sentence

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The successful business career, however, was a means to an end, for Poindexter’s passion is history—specifically bringing it to life through restoration of vintage properties and landscapes. Chris Dorsey, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 At the end of the day, the flight is just a means to an end — an adventure, a celebration, or an occasion is just a seatbelt sign away. Jocelyn Newman, Travel + Leisure, 14 Dec. 2024 Well, online comedy was always a means to an end for me. Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 29 Nov. 2024 Trade, particularly among furs, was a means to an end for an explorer seeking funding. Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi, Discover Magazine, 12 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for a means to an end 

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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 22 Dec. 2024.

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