big deal

[big deel]

noun

1. an important or impressive person or thing.

   to make a big deal out of nothing;

   I hear he's a big deal on Wall Street now.

2. (used ironically as an interjection to indicate that one considers something to be unimportant or unimpressive).

   So you're the mayor's cousin—big deal!

big deal

interjection

1. slang,  an exclamation of scorn, derision, etc, used esp to belittle a claim or offer

Word History and Origins

Origin of big deal¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. (it’s) no big deal. no big deal

A matter of great interest or importance, as in Performing in Symphony Hall is a big deal for everyone in the chorus . [c. 1940] Also see under make a federal case out of .

So what? Who cares? For example, So you got the job after all—well, big deal! This use of the phrase as an ironic interjection dates from approximately the same time.

Example Sentences

"And I think that was a big piece. But with the money, it's not really a big deal for me."

From BBC

A problem for Sterling has been the people behind such a big deal are no longer in charge at the club.

From BBC

Not apologising for net cords is not seen as a big deal in the United States.

From BBC

That’s a big deal as those guys are continuing to grow together.”

From Los Angeles Times

But the latest moves, announced on Monday as MPs return to Parliament, are a big deal for several reasons.

From BBC