The big enchilada
noun
The most important person or thing in a particular context.
In this business, he is the big enchilada.
Often appears as...
- he is the big enchilada
- become the big enchilada
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
noun
A problem or situation that is especially large or difficult.
Our lack of funding is the big enchilada we need to solve.
Often appears as...
- is the big enchilada
- solve the big enchilada
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
noun
The most important person or thing in a particular context.
In this business, he is the big enchilada.
Often appears as...
- he is the big enchilada
- become the big enchilada
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
noun
A problem or situation that is especially large or difficult.
Our lack of funding is the big enchilada we need to solve.
Often appears as...
- is the big enchilada
- solve the big enchilada
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Informal Usage
It's an informal expression, so it's best used in casual conversations, not in formal writing or speeches.
At the family reunion, Uncle Joe was the big enchilada because he organized everything.
Pro Tip 2/3American Slang
This phrase is considered American slang, so it may not be well understood outside the United States.
She tried to use 'the big enchilada' in London, but her friends were confused.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
The phrase alludes to Mexican food but has no relation to Mexican culture when used in this context.
In the tech conference, they referred to the keynote speaker as the big enchilada of the event.
Pro Tip 1/3Informal Usage
It's an informal expression, so it's best used in casual conversations, not in formal writing or speeches.
At the family reunion, Uncle Joe was the big enchilada because he organized everything.
Pro Tip 2/3American Slang
This phrase is considered American slang, so it may not be well understood outside the United States.
She tried to use 'the big enchilada' in London, but her friends were confused.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
The phrase alludes to Mexican food but has no relation to Mexican culture when used in this context.
In the tech conference, they referred to the keynote speaker as the big enchilada of the event.
Pro Tip 1/3Informal Usage
It's an informal expression, so it's best used in casual conversations, not in formal writing or speeches.
At the family reunion, Uncle Joe was the big enchilada because he organized everything.
Pro Tip 2/3American Slang
This phrase is considered American slang, so it may not be well understood outside the United States.
She tried to use 'the big enchilada' in London, but her friends were confused.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
The phrase alludes to Mexican food but has no relation to Mexican culture when used in this context.
In the tech conference, they referred to the keynote speaker as the big enchilada of the event.
Never forget "The big enchilada"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension