Business as Usual: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Business as Usual” mean?

"Business as usual" means continuing with normal operations or activities.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Despite the pandemic, the company is operating business as usual.

Example

After the power outage, the store reopened and it was business as usual.

Example

Even with the change in management, the team carried on business as usual

Is “Business as Usual” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Business as Usual” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Business as Usual” effectively in context?

You can use "Business as Usual" to describe a situation where things are continuing in their normal manner, despite any disruptions or changes. It implies that there is no significant deviation from the regular operations or activities. For example, if a company is facing a crisis but still functioning normally, you might say, 'Despite the pandemic, the company is operating "business as usual".'

• 1. Work

  After the power outage, the store reopened and it was business as usual.

• 2. Management

  Even with the change in management, the team carried on business as usual.

• 3. Crisis

  Despite the financial difficulties, the organization continued business as usual.

Similar phrases to “Business as Usual”:

Status quo

The existing state or condition of things

Example

The management decided to maintain the status quo and not make any major changes.

Keep the ball rolling

To continue or maintain progress or momentum

Example

Despite the setbacks, the team kept the ball rolling and achieved their goals.

Smooth sailing

An easy and uneventful progress

Example

After resolving the initial issues, the project proceeded smoothly and it was smooth sailing from there.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Business as Usual” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Business as Usual" is unknown.

Is “Business as Usual” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Business as Usual" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. It is often used in professional settings to indicate that operations or activities are proceeding normally, despite any challenges or changes.

What tone does “Business as Usual” have?

"Business as Usual" conveys a tone of stability and continuity. It suggests that there is no need for concern or disruption, as things are proceeding as expected.

Can “Business as Usual” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Business as Usual" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as work, business, or personal situations. It is commonly used in professional conversations, meetings, or reports to indicate that operations are continuing normally.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Despite the challenges, the team carried on "business as usual".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to go back to "business as usual"!' to imply a return to normal activities.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• continuing as usual
• operating normally
• proceeding as usual
• carrying on as usual
• maintaining the status quo

Antonyms

• disrupted operations
• change of plans
• deviation from the norm
• unusual circumstances
• abnormal situation