Mean business
verb
To act seriously, with determination and purpose.
When he rolled up his sleeves and started giving orders, we knew he meant business.
Often appears as...
- she means business
- they mean business
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To involve risk or danger, particularly in professional or commercial context.
This new competitor really means business. We have to watch out.
Often appears as...
- they mean business
- this deal means business
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To act seriously, with determination and purpose.
When he rolled up his sleeves and started giving orders, we knew he meant business.
Often appears as...
- she means business
- they mean business
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To involve risk or danger, particularly in professional or commercial context.
This new competitor really means business. We have to watch out.
Often appears as...
- they mean business
- this deal means business
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Body Language
Look for gestures that reinforce the phrase: rolled sleeves, clenched fists, or focused eyes.
The boss walked in with a stern face and said nothing; she clearly meant business.
Pro Tip 2/3No Joking
When someone 'means business,' they are not joking or playing around.
She isn't smiling today—she means business.
Pro Tip 3/3Clear Intent
Expect direct and clear communication, indicating commitment.
By doubling the team's size, the company showed it meant business.
Pro Tip 1/3Body Language
Look for gestures that reinforce the phrase: rolled sleeves, clenched fists, or focused eyes.
The boss walked in with a stern face and said nothing; she clearly meant business.
Pro Tip 2/3No Joking
When someone 'means business,' they are not joking or playing around.
She isn't smiling today—she means business.
Pro Tip 3/3Clear Intent
Expect direct and clear communication, indicating commitment.
By doubling the team's size, the company showed it meant business.
Pro Tip 1/3Body Language
Look for gestures that reinforce the phrase: rolled sleeves, clenched fists, or focused eyes.
The boss walked in with a stern face and said nothing; she clearly meant business.
Pro Tip 2/3No Joking
When someone 'means business,' they are not joking or playing around.
She isn't smiling today—she means business.
Pro Tip 3/3Clear Intent
Expect direct and clear communication, indicating commitment.
By doubling the team's size, the company showed it meant business.
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