What do you mean by...

Meaning

Seeking definition of a specific term.

Examples

• John: The report mentions 'synergistic effects'.
• Alice: <b>What do you mean by</b> 'synergistic effects' in this context?
• John: It refers to the combined effect being greater than the sum of its parts.
• Alice: Ah, I see. So, <b>what do you mean by</b> that in the overall project outcome?