cause a fuss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause a fuss" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone making a scene or expressing strong discontent about something. Example: "She tends to cause a fuss whenever things don't go her way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Wouldn't want to cause a fuss, right?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Surely someone at the Strand would cause a fuss, right?

The New York Times

Torre was too embarrassed to cause a fuss.

The New York Times - Sports

She adds, "I don't want to cause a fuss".

The New Yorker

We knew it was going to cause a fuss.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We were hemmed in and would cause a fuss if we tried to get out.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

No fewer than three are now causing a fuss.

The Economist

It is revealing that his doing so caused a fuss.

The Economist

Volker Kauder, a prominent CDU politician, caused a fuss when he said that "Europe now speaks German".

The Economist

The skit caused a fuss because it was performed by Colette and the Marquise de Belboeuf.

The Guardian - Film

The letter-writers ought to have seen this and refrained from causing a fuss.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cause a fuss" when you want to describe someone creating a disturbance or expressing dissatisfaction, often in a way that others find annoying or unnecessary.

Common error

While generally acceptable, "cause a fuss" can sound informal in highly professional or academic writing. Consider more formal alternatives like "raise concerns" or "lodge a complaint" for a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause a fuss" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as the predicate of a clause. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable. It describes the act of creating a disturbance or expressing strong discontent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cause a fuss" is a commonly used and grammatically correct verb phrase that describes the act of creating a disturbance or expressing discontent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's generally acceptable in various contexts, though it may be less appropriate for formal or academic writing. It appears most frequently in news and media sources. When aiming for a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "raise concerns" or "lodge a complaint". While "make a fuss" is a valid alternative, the choice depends on stylistic preference. Be aware that its overuse might be considered informal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a scene

Implies a more public and disruptive display of emotion or anger.

cause a commotion

Suggests noisy confusion or disturbance.

create a disturbance

Focuses on the disruption or interruption caused by the action.

kick up a row

An informal British expression suggesting a noisy argument or complaint.

raise objections

Highlights the act of expressing disagreement or opposition.

cause a racket

Refers to making a disturbing loud noise.

make an issue

Emphasizes the act of turning something into a problem or point of contention.

stir up trouble

Suggests intentionally creating conflict or problems.

express discontent

More formal way of saying someone is complaining.

create a stir

To cause excitement or interest; to make people talk about something.

FAQs

How can I use "cause a fuss" in a sentence?

You can use "cause a fuss" to describe someone who makes a scene or complains excessively about something. For example, "He didn't want to "cause a fuss", so he kept his complaints to himself."

What's a less informal alternative to "cause a fuss"?

Consider using phrases like "raise concerns", "lodge a complaint", or "voice objections" as more formal alternatives to ""cause a fuss"".

Is it better to say "make a fuss" or "cause a fuss"?

Both "make a fuss" and ""cause a fuss"" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or stylistic context.

What does it mean to "cause a fuss"?

To ""cause a fuss"" means to create a disturbance, express strong dissatisfaction, or make a scene, often over something considered trivial by others.