Make a meal of something

usgb
phrase

To make something simple seem more complicated or difficult than it really is.

She took so long to fill out a simple form. She really made a meal out of it.
Visual representation of "make a meal of something" - To make something simple seem more complicated or difficult than it really is.

Often appears as...

  • make a meal out of a task
  • make a meal out of a situation

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "make a meal of something"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Colloquial Usage

This phrase is informal, used more in casual conversation than formal writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
When I told Jake it was just changing a tire, he made a meal of it.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

It suggests someone is unnecessarily complicating things, often with a sense of frustration.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The assignment was easy, but she made a meal out of it.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Metaphorical

This a metaphor, comparing a simple task to an elaborate process like cooking a big meal.

Illustration for Metaphorical
This is a quick cleanup, not a three-course dinner—don't make a meal out of it.
Visual representation of the word "Make a meal of something"

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