[make] a mountain out of (a|) molehill
1
to make a problem appear more serious or dangerous than it actually is
The idiom "make a mountain out of a molehill" originated in the 16th century and has been in use since then. This phrase draws upon the contrast between a tiny molehill, which is a small mound created by burrowing animals, and a towering mountain, highlighting the tendency of some individuals to amplify the importance of minor matters, often causing unnecessary worry or concern.
- I told him about his demotion and as you can expect, he made a mountain out of molehill again and said that he'll resign tomorrow.
- She was only five minutes late!You're making a mountain out of a molehill.
- This is Gabriel.He specializes in making a mountain from molehill.
- He made a mountain out of a molehill when he saw a small scratch on his new car, acting as if it were a major accident.
- Don't make a mountain out of a molehill; it was just a minor miscommunication.