Make a meal of it
Meaning
To treat something as more complicated or significant than it really is, often taking an excessive amount of time or effort.
Origin
Imagine the difference between a swift, casual snack and a grand, multi-course feast, demanding time, attention, and considerable effort. The phrase 'make a meal of it' captures this contrast, applying the elaborate nature of a full meal to a task or problem that simply doesn't warrant such fuss. It emerged to describe someone who treats a minor issue with an exaggerated seriousness, drawing it out or complicating it unnecessarily, much like savoring every bite of a lengthy dinner when a simple sandwich would suffice. It's a humorous and gentle jab at over-dramatization, reminding us that sometimes, less truly is more.
Examples
- Don't make a meal of it; it's a simple task that should only take a few minutes.
- She tends to make a meal of minor disagreements, turning them into drawn-out arguments.