mean business
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Drones and anti-drones mean business for a host of defense startups and established players.
From Barron's • Feb. 11, 2026
“Union baristas mean business and are ready to do whatever it takes to win a fair contract,” Eisen said in a statement.
From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 5, 2025
Because their 900 workers would stay all year, it would mean "business all year round for the local traders."
From BBC • Mar. 28, 2024
According to local reporting, members said the reason for the act of civil disobedience was to show the casinos that they mean business and that they’re willing to sit down in traffic for a contract.
From Washington Times • Oct. 26, 2023
"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
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
