The other day in my speaking class, we discussed the phrases "means to an end" and "an end in itself", and I wanted to share the difference with you!

✨ "Means to an end" is when something is done to achieve a bigger goal.

For many professionals, learning English is a means to an end — they want to land a better job or communicate with international clients.

Practicing yoga can be a means to an end if your goal is to improve your health or flexibility.

✨ "An end in itself" is when the activity is valuable for its own sake.

For some people like ESL teachers and linguists, learning English is an end in itself — they simply enjoy the process of learning and speaking.

Running can be an end in itself for someone who loves the feeling of achievement and the joy of movement, not just for fitness.

Both perspectives can exist depending on the goal!

📩What about you? Is learning English a means to an end or an nd in itself for you?