get down to business: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘get down to business’ mean?

The idiom "get down to business" means to focus on the task or purpose at hand, and to start doing what needs to be done without wasting time.

Idiom Explorer

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The idiom "get down to cases" is another English expression that is related to "get down to business." Like "get down to business," it is used to emphasize the need to focus on important matters. "Get down to cases" suggests that it is time to stop discussing general or irrelevant topics and start addressing specific issues or tasks. It conveys a sense of urgency and the need for practical action, similar to "get down to business."

Start your work task with a business focus.

Similarly, the idiom "get down to brass tacks" shares a similar meaning and usage with "get down to business." It is often used to encourage individuals to stop beating around the bush or engaging in unnecessary conversations and instead focus on the essential details or fundamental aspects of a situation. "Brass tacks" is a metaphor for the basic or practical aspects of a matter, and "get down to brass tacks" highlights the importance of addressing those important elements without delay.

Additionally, the idiom "go to work" is also related to "get down to business" and shares a similar sentiment. "Go to work" is often used to indicate the beginning of a task or activity, emphasizing the need to start working with focus and dedication. It suggests that it is time to put in effort and take action towards achieving a goal or completing a task. Like "get down to business," "go to work" implies a transition from a more relaxed state to a more industrious and productive one.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "get down to business" can be used in a sentence:

  1. After the small talk, it was time to get down to business and discuss the important issues at hand.
  2. Before we can start the project, we need to get down to business and create a detailed plan.
  3. Once everyone arrived at the meeting, the chairperson wasted no time and immediately asked everyone to get down to business.

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