the big boys

big boy

1. A male who is not an infant, i.e., a child, young man, or man, depending on context. Can be used either literally or sarcastically/disparagingly. You're a big boy, and you need to learn to clean up after yourself. Sean is a big boy, he can take care of himself.
2. A large and/or formidable person or thing. You're a big boy, but that doesn't mean I won't fight you! Let's take this big boy out for a spin on the open road.
3. slang A term of affection for a man, used by a person who finds that man sexually attractive. Bye big boy, I hope to see you again really soon.
4. The most prominent, powerful, or influential people in a group, organization, or area of business. Usually plural. You're a partner in the firm, so you're going to be working with the big boys now. I'm just a local councilor, I'm not exactly among the big boys of politics.
5. adjective Of, pertaining to, or belonging to a male who is not an infant, with specific age being variable and dependent on context. Often hyphenated. You're growing up so fast, you are already old enough to play on the big-boy swings!
See also: big, boy
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

the big boys

men or organizations considered to be the most powerful and successful. informal
2004 Richard Valot Earth vs Mars I don't have time to argue about every trivial little concern you may have, Hank. Leave the decision-making to the big boys.
See also: big, boy
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • big boy
  • big boys
  • a man of few words
  • man of few words
  • man of few words, a
  • a man/woman of few words
  • man on the make
  • kept man
  • man of color
  • a man, woman, etc. after your own heart
References in classic literature
The puppies were yelping, the small boys romping, and the big boys all talking at once; the curtains were up, the room close, berries scattered freely about, Mac's shade half off, his cheeks flushed, his temper ruffled, and his voice loudest of all as he disputed hotly with Steve about lending certain treasured books which he could no longer use.
Eight Cousins
Others - especially the big boys - pose a danger to pedestrians," Wairiuko said.
Urchins pile up in CBD despite weekly Fagia Street operations
Rail experts will tell you that when the Big Boys were active, they were the pinnacle of the development of the steam engine.
Big Boy 4014 It's been a joy to be transported to another time during the locomotive's suburban tour
Yes, they will win a couple of games against the big boys, they'll have a little run where they are attractive and easy on the eye.
It's no way, no Howe at Lane
League One table-toppers Pompey go into today's second-round clash looking to mix it with the big boys once again.
MATT ON ROLL
Everyone's favorite Baeby Baste is now six years old and he's bent on doing chores for the big boys including taking care of his equally cute younger brother Samsam.
Baeby Baste, now a big boy, looks after baby brother Samsam
Lopez aired his demand to the big boys of the RCEP, as their ministerial meeting on Sunday in Tokyo comes to a near.
'Resolve issues, conclude R.C.E.P. before trade war'
By FRANCIS MUREITHIMean Machine coach Phelim Kidakwa is relishing a chance to meet the big boys when the Kenya Cup rugby season kicks off this year.The University of Nairobis Mean Machine are making a comeback to Kenyas top-flight rugby league after a three-year-absence, and will be joined by debutants Menengai Oilers.
Returning Mean Machine primed for Kenya Cup
The Big Boys Toys Storage facility includes individual storage condos that can be purchased by RV owners.
Big Boys Toys Storage Offering Secure Storage Solutions to Arizona RV Owners
Also launching in 2015 is the Big Boys Toys 'Style Icon' with a grand prize to the best-dressed male and female visitor at the event.
BIG BOYS TOYS WILL BE EPIQUE!
Charlton v Blackburn 3pm BLACKBURN boss Gary Bowyer wants to earn another crack at the big boys by beating Charlton.
Bowyer's Rovers' big dream
NEIL YOUNG has urged Chester FC to get back on track by beating Gateshead in the FA Cup to give themselves a chance of facing "the big boys".
Cup more a priority this year
These precious bugs are up for sale at the Big Boys Toys 2013.
Big boys are back
Biju Jayaraaj CEO of the event organiser Artaaj said: "The business impact of the Big Boys Toys event is growing year on year.
Countdown to Big Boys Toys