# mean business

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/mean-business
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be serious, especially where achieving a specific end against opposition is concerned.

## Examples

- The coach means business during this practice session.
- When the manager arrived early and locked the office door, we knew she meant business about finishing the project.
- The negotiator adjusted his tie and sat forward, his stern expression signaling to the board that he truly meant business regarding the contract terms.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.