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Synonyms

mean business

Idioms  
  1. Be in earnest. For example, He really means business with this deadline. This idiom uses business in the sense of “a serious endeavor.” [Mid-1800s]


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Just a glance at the top scorers table is proof enough that the world's best mean business.

From BBC Jun. 18, 2026

Drones and anti-drones mean business for a host of defense startups and established players.

From Barron's Feb. 11, 2026

Nearly a week after taking the keys to the battered media company, Ellison and his top executives met with reporters at the Paramount Pictures lot Wednesday to show that they mean business.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 13, 2025

They showed why they mean business in Switzerland, beating Wales 6-1 after a crucial 4-0 win over the Netherlands.

From BBC Jul. 13, 2025

"Act like it! Matter fact, learn from the newbies. Defend each other. They ain't your opponents. They're your new family. And as y'all can see, they mean business."

From "Ghost" by Jason Reynolds

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