mean business

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

“Union baristas mean business and are ready to do whatever it takes to win a fair contract,” Eisen said in a statement.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

While Sidney initially appears skeptical that the voice-altered mystery person is much of a threat, the new Ghostface soon proves they mean business.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The 27-year-old Dutchman delivered an all-action performance, contributing a goal and an assist, as City showed they mean business by thrashing Wolves at Molineux.

Read more on BBC

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.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

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

Read more on BBC