To successfully complete a business transaction or agreement; to finalize negotiations and reach a binding agreement.
This phrase emerged from American business culture in the early 20th century, when 'deal' began replacing more formal terms like 'transaction' or 'agreement.' The verb 'close' comes from accounting, where books are 'closed' to finalize records.
What's remarkable about this phrase is how it transformed from accounting jargon into a cultural metaphor for any successful conclusion - people now 'close the deal' on everything from job offers to romantic relationships. It reflects America's business-minded approach to life's negotiations.
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