Mean business

Meaning

The idiom "mean business" means to be serious, intentional, or earnest in one's actions or intentions. It implies a level of urgency or importance that requires immediate attention. When someone says they mean business, it suggests they are not joking and that their words should be taken seriously.

Usage

• After years of planning, the company finally meant business when it acquired a new CEO with a fresh perspective.
• My boss means business when he tells me to complete this project on time.
• The athlete meant business when they hit that home run in the game.
• When I said I was going to quit my job, my friend meant business and immediately started looking for a new opportunity.
• The politician meant business when they promised to improve the infrastructure of their city during their election campaign. The usage of the idiom "mean business" can vary depending on the context. For example, it can be used in a positive or negative sense. In a positive sense, it implies determination and hard work. However, in a negative sense, it may suggest a lack of empathy or consideration for others.

Roots and History

The idiom "mean business" has its roots in the early 20th century and is believed to have originated in the United States. It is thought to have been used by businessmen who were serious about their work and took their obligations seriously. Over time, the idiom has become more widely used in everyday language and is now commonly used to describe a wide range of situations where someone is being serious or earnest.

Synonyms in English

• Mean business
• Be serious
• Have intention
• Show earnestness
• Be determined

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "Tener intención" (to have intention)
• French: "Avoir une volonté" (to have will)
• German: "Beabsichtigt sein" (to mean to be intended)
• Italian: "Avere un proposito" (to have a purpose)
• Japanese: "意味がある" (to have meaning)

Similar Idioms

• make a long story short

• memory like a sieve

• Memorial Day