- To finalize an agreement, negotiation, or transaction successfully; to make something certain or official.
Explanation
Origin
- Historically, important documents, contracts, and letters were authenticated by affixing a wax seal, often impressed with a unique signet ring or stamp.
- This 'sealing' signified that the document was official, agreed upon, and finalized.
- The expression seal the deal adopts this imagery to mean concluding any kind of agreement or transaction.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- It's a wrap.
- Locked it down.
- In the bag. (Meaning success is assured/achieved)
- Sorted. (UK/Aus)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- (Usually expressing satisfaction *after*): We fuckin' nailed it.
- (Less common for the act itself)
Milder/Standard:
- Finalize the agreement.
- Conclude the transaction.
- Reach an agreement.
- Formalize the arrangement.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in both informal and formal settings, especially common in business and negotiations.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally straightforward. The 'deal' can refer to anything from a major business merger to deciding on dinner plans, context is key.
Examples
- A firm handshake was enough to seal the deal between the old business partners.
- We need the client's signature on this contract to seal the deal.
- Offering free shipping helped seal the deal for many online customers.
Dialogue
Agent: Good news! The buyers loved the house and accepted your counter-offer.
Seller: Really? That's wonderful!
Agent: Yes, they're coming in tomorrow morning to sign the final papers and seal the deal.
Seller: Fantastic! I'm so relieved.
Social Media Examples
- Just sealed the deal on our dream apartment! Can't wait to move in! 🔑 #newhome #cityliving
- Contract signed! Thrilled to announce we've sealed the deal with our new distributor. Big things coming! #business #partnership #growth
- That final presentation really sealed the deal for the client. Teamwork makes the dream work! #sales #win
Response Patterns
- Great news!
- Congratulations!
- Excellent!
- It's official then.
- Fantastic!
- Time to celebrate!
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After confirming the deal is sealed:
- What are the next steps?
- When does everything take effect?
- How are you celebrating?
- Let's get the paperwork sorted.
- Discussing the implications or benefits of the sealed deal.
Conversation Starter
- No. It refers to the conclusion of a process.
Intonation
- Typically positive and conclusive.
- Stress falls on SEAL and DEAL. We finally SEALed the DEAL.
Generation Differences
- Commonly understood and used across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Widely used and understood in all major English-speaking regions.