what's the big deal?

phrase

—used to ask why something is so important

So I'm late. What's the big deal?

Cite this Entry

Style

“What's the big deal?.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/what%27s%20the%20big%20deal%3F. Accessed 20 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Popular in Grammar & Usage

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

What does 'etcetera' mean?

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

what's the big deal?

phrase

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

eureka

Popular in Grammar & Usage

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

What does 'etcetera' mean?

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

The Opposite of Déjà Vu

Why do we say 'fly off the handle'?

Why do we say 'get out of Dodge'?

The Words of the Week - Mar. 13

Why do we call it a 'flea market'?

Popular

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

The Opposite of Déjà Vu

Why do we say 'fly off the handle'?

Games & Quizzes