big deal

American  

[big deel] / ˈbɪg ˈdil /

noun

1. an important or impressive person or thing.

   to make a big deal out of nothing;

   I hear he's a big deal on Wall Street now.

2. (used ironically as an interjection to indicate that one considers something to be unimportant or unimpressive).

   So you're the mayor's cousin—big deal!

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idioms

1. (it’s) no big deal. see no big deal

big deal British  

interjection

1. slang an exclamation of scorn, derision, etc, used esp to belittle a claim or offer

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big deal More Idioms  

1. A matter of great interest or importance, as in Performing in Symphony Hall is a big deal for everyone in the chorus . [c. 1940] Also see under make a federal case out of .

2. So what? Who cares? For example, So you got the job after all—well, big deal! This use of the phrase as an ironic interjection dates from approximately the same time.

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Etymology

Origin of big deal

First recorded in 1945–50

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

big deal

The downstream effects of AI on interest rates would also be a big deal for lenders, one way or another.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 9, 2026

Given how big a deal immigration was for many in the EU referendum in 2016, even reopening the question of freedom of movement feels like a big deal.

From BBC ● Oct. 26, 2026

Akamai stock is upgraded to a bullish buy rating after shares tumbled last week on fears about the company’s big deal with Anthropic..

From Barron's ● Oct. 20, 2026

If there is a proven reduction in pain, that’s a big deal for Americans dealing with back and knee pain.

From MarketWatch ● Oct. 8, 2026

This was a big deal for Audrey—I knew how badly she wanted us to be partners.

From "Keep It Together, Keiko Carter" by Debbi Michiko Florence

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