the... thing

the whole (something) thing

Some element, aspect, or characteristic of someone or something, especially that one dislikes or disapproves of. I really liked him, but he didn't want to be with someone who wasn't into the whole kids thing. This whole starving-artist thing he's cultivated for himself is so pretentious.
See also: thing, whole
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

the (whole)... thing

(informal) a situation or an activity of the type mentioned: She really didn’t want to be involved in the whole family thing.
See also: thing
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • the whole (something) thing
  • the whole thing
  • the... bit
  • the whole bit
  • the whole (something) bit
  • make a noise
  • make noise (about something)
  • there was/is something about (someone or something)
  • there's something about (someone or something)
  • there's something about somebody/something