Meaning

"A big deal" is something important. "It's a big deal" means it matters a lot, like a wedding, a first job or a new baby. The reaction "Big deal." turns that upside down. Said alone, with a flat voice, it's sarcastic and means "So what? That's not impressive." Someone brags about their new car, and "Big deal" tells them you're not impressed at all.

That sarcastic version is rude, and it can hurt when someone is proud of something. Save it for teasing close friends, if at all. The phrase you'll want far more often is "It's no big deal" or "It's not a big deal," which means "Don't worry, it isn't important." It's kind, calm and good anywhere, especially after someone apologizes to you.

In a conversation

ChenGrace
  1. Chen
  2. Grace
  3. Chen
  4. Grace
  5. Chen

Say it out loud

Tap a sentence to hear it. Say it after the voice.

Check yourself

1Grace first says "Big deal" to Chen. How does it sound?
2A coworker apologizes for sending you the wrong file. Which reply is kind?

Practice · 3 min

Listen, then practice the reassuring version. Keep your voice relaxed, with a small rise at the end.

Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.