The phrase "ways and means" refers to methods and resources used to achieve a particular goal. Phonetically, the word "ways" is spelled /weɪz/ and the word "means" is spelled /miːnz/. The "w" sound in "ways" is pronounced as a voiced labio-velar approximant, while the "ay" sound is a diphthong consisting of a short "e" sound and a long "a" sound. The "m" sound in "means" is pronounced as a bilabial nasal, while the "ee" sound is a long vowel sound.
Ways and means is an idiomatic phrase that refers to the methods, strategies, or resources used to accomplish a particular objective or goal. It is often used in the context of finding practical, effective, or suitable ways to achieve something.
In a broader sense, ways and means can be understood as the combination of various approaches, actions, or resources that are employed to address a specific problem or situation. It encompasses the ideas, plans, or solutions that individuals or groups utilize to overcome challenges and reach desired outcomes.
The phrase "ways and means" can also specifically refer to the financial methods or resources by which a government, organization, or individual funds its operations or implements policies. This pertains to the assessment and allocation of revenue or funds to support various programs, projects, or initiatives. In this context, ways and means include strategies such as taxation, borrowing, revenue generation, budgetary planning, expenditure control, and other financial measures undertaken to manage the financial aspects of an entity.
Overall, ways and means is a comprehensive term that encapsulates the strategies, methods, resources, and financial measures employed to achieve a particular objective or to address a range of pertinent issues. It underscores the importance of finding effective and viable approaches to achieve desired outcomes, whether in terms of problem-solving, goal attainment, or financial management.
• Methods; resources; in Parliamentary language, means for raising money; resources for revenue; highway.
• A wide road for traffic, made and maintained in good order at the public expense. Note. Way or ways following no, forms a phrase meaning in no manner or in no wise,-as, "he is no ways a match for him," "tis no way his interest".
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.