Meaning & use
you mean business
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
Used to say that someone is serious and determined about what they are doing or saying.
Grammar: Often used as 'you mean business' or 'someone means business.' It can be used in the past: 'He meant business.'
Patterns
- someone means business
- you mean business
When you said you would call the police, I knew you meant business.
She walked in with a clipboard and a serious face — she means business.
The company is cutting costs, so they mean business this time.
Common combinations
- really mean business
- He really means business about finishing the project today.
- mean business about something
- They mean business about improving safety.
- look like you mean business
- Wear a suit if you want to look like you mean business.
Synonyms and how they differ
- be serious
- This is a more general way to say someone is not joking; 'mean business' often suggests determination to act.
- be in earnest
- This is more formal and literary; 'mean business' is more common in everyday speech.
Opposites
Commonly confused: you mean business or mind your own business?
you mean business vs mind your own business
This means you should not interfere in other people's affairs. 'Mean business' is about being serious, not about privacy.
Practice
What does 'you mean business' mean?
Choose one answer.
The phrase means you are serious about what you are doing or saying. It does not refer to owning a business or being confused.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “you mean business”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.