But it was plain that he didn't know what the question meant.

For a moment, he has no idea what this question means.

Rather, the young child's response is determined by what the child thinks the adult's question must mean.

I told you, such questions mean nothing to me.

Their eyes were very intent, and I knew the question meant more than it should have.

The question meant more than just the words, and I knew that.

He was too confused by this time to understand what the question meant.

You can even argue forever about what the question means.

Truth be told, I wasn't even really sure what the question meant.

What do you think my question means first of all, Richard?