that's saying something

English

Pronunciation

• Audio (AU)

  (file)

Phrase

that's saying something

1. (idiomatic) Said of something that has an even greater impact or effect than what is readily apparent, considering the context.
   • 1997 June 26, J. K. Rowling [pseudonym; Joanne Rowling], Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (Harry Potter; 1), London: Bloomsbury Publishing, →ISBN:

     Longbottom, if brains were gold you’d be poorer than Weasley, and that’s saying something.

   • 2015, ending theme song of Star vs. the Forces of Evil

     I think Earth is a pretty great place. That's saying something, 'cause I've been through outer space.