Make a federal case out of Meaning in English
expression
التعريف
To treat something as much more important or serious than it really is, often by complaining a lot or making a big fuss about it.
الاستخدام والفروق الدقيقة
Very informal, US English. Used to criticize someone for overreacting. Not used for truly serious matters—better for small issues blown out of proportion. Commonly followed by 'of' + the issue (e.g., 'make a federal case out of nothing'). Not literal: it doesn't involve actual legal cases.
جمل نموذجية
Don't make a federal case out of a simple mistake.
basic
He always makes a federal case out of nothing.
basic
Please don't make a federal case out of the dishes.
basic
If you keep making a federal case out of every tiny thing, people will tune you out.
natural
She tends to make a federal case out of delays, even if it’s just five minutes.
natural
Wow, you're really making a federal case out of this! It's not that serious.
natural