make a federal case out of something
make a federal case (out) of (something)
To exaggerate or build up the importance of something; to make a big deal out of something. The phrase is often used to complain that someone is exaggerating a problem or alleged wrongdoing. So I ate your leftovers. Geez, don't make a federal case out of it! I'm not trying to make a federal case out of it, but I know you stole my new sweater!
See also: case, federal, make, of
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
make a federal case out of something
AMERICANIf someone makes a federal case out of something, they treat it as if it is much worse or more serious than it really is. Note: In the first two expressions, a case is a matter that is being dealt with by a lawyer or doctor, rather than referring to a box or suitcase. I am not trying to make a federal case out of it, but with minor changes, you could achieve so much more.
See also: case, federal, make, of, out, something
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
make a federal case out of something
tv. to exaggerate the importance of an error; to overdo something. Do you have to make a federal case out of everything?
See also: case, federal, make, of, out, something
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions
- (someone or something) promises well
- all right
- a/the feel of (something)
- (I) wouldn't (do something) if I were you
- (have) got something going (with someone)
- (you've) got to get up pretty early in the morning to (do something)
- a straw will show which way the wind blows
- accompanied by
- accompanied by (someone or something)
- accompany