The Village Idiom

done deal

The meaning of the idiom done deal is that something is certain or completed with no further uncertainty or negotiation. It is often used to indicate a situation or agreement that is considered final or fully resolved.

Filed under D

In a sentence

  • I just made an offer on the car, and the seller accepted it immediately. It's a done deal!
  • The team worked hard and won the game by a large margin. It was a done deal from the start.
  • After weeks of negotiations, the company finally signed the contract. It's a done deal now.

Where it comes from and how it is used

Done and dusted

The phrase "done and dusted" is similar to "done deal" in that it conveys a sense of finality and certainty. Both idioms share the idea that a situation or agreement is concluded and there is no further discussion or negotiation needed.

Have done with

"Have done with" is another idiomatic expression similar to "done deal." It is used to indicate that someone wants to end a relationship, situation, or task. When someone says "I have done with that job," they are expressing their desire to finish the task and move on to something else. This idiom adds a note of determination and resolve to the idea of finality expressed by "done deal."

The phrase "have done with" can also be used in a negative sense, expressing frustration or annoyance with a particular situation or person. For example, someone might say "I have done with their constant complaining" to indicate that they no longer wish to be involved in the person's grievances.

Cut a deal

Similar to "done deal," "cut a deal" is often used in business and legal contexts to describe negotiations and agreements. It highlights the process of reaching an agreement rather than just the end result.

All set

"All set" shares a similar sense of finality and non-negotiability with "done deal." Both idioms communicate that a situation or task has been concluded and there is no need for further discussion, negotiation, or action.

Conclusion

The idioms "done and dusted," "have done with," "cut a deal," and "all set" all share a common theme of finality and certainty. They each add their own nuances and shades of meaning to the basic concept of a "done deal." Whether emphasizing the successful completion of a task, expressing determination to move on, highlighting the process of negotiation, or indicating that all preparations have been made, these idioms contribute to the rich tapestry of American English expressions. Understanding and using these idioms can add depth and vibrancy to communication, allowing individuals to convey their thoughts and feelings in a concise and engaging manner.

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