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Make a Mountain Out of a Molehill

What Does "Make a Mountain Out of a Molehill" Mean?

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"Make a mountain out of a molehill" is an English idiom. It means "to exaggerate a minor problem or issue."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "make a mountain out of a molehill" used in a sentence:
  • You're making a mountain out of a molehill. It's not that big of a deal.
  • He always makes a mountain out of a molehill over the smallest inconveniences.
  • It's just a tiny scratch on the car; don't make a mountain out of a molehill.
meaning for make a mountain out of a molehill

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Make a Mountain Out of a Molehill" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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