What does mentioning mean?
Mentioning means referring to a person, thing, issue, or event in speech or writing, often briefly and without lengthy explanation. It can be used to introduce a topic, report what a source says, or acknowledge something in passing. The expression is neutral and suitable for formal and informal contexts, although formal writing may prefer constructions such as 'the report notes' or 'it is worth mentioning.' Mentioning can suggest either a straightforward reference or a deliberate attempt to avoid giving the subject detailed attention. Phrases such as 'make no mention of,' 'worth mentioning,' and 'a passing mention' show that the word often concerns the presence or absence of a reference rather than a detailed discussion. A brief mention can still draw attention to an issue, making the verb useful when discussing both content and emphasis.
To refer to or state someone or something in speech or writing.
"The speaker mentioned the need for further research."
Often used when a topic is introduced briefly or acknowledged without detailed discussion.
The act of referring to or briefly stating something.
"His mentioning of the issue was enough to prompt a discussion."
The noun use is less common than the verb and is often formal, especially in the phrase 'the mentioning of.'
Mentioning something can be enough to put it on the agenda: a single sentence can make an issue impossible to ignore.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mentioning come from?
The word comes through Old French from Latin mentionem, the accusative form of mentio, meaning 'a call, mention, or reminder.' Latin mentio is related to mens, meaning 'mind,' so the word originally conveyed bringing something to mind. English began using the form in the Middle English period, and later developed the verb meaning to refer to or state something and the noun meaning a brief notice or reference.
Related word forms
How mentioning is actually used
The word is neutral in register. In formal contexts, 'mention' is often preferred in structures such as 'the report mentions' or 'it is worth mentioning'; the gerund 'mentioning' is especially common when referring to something briefly or in passing.