make a big deal

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence The expression "make a big deal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something as being significant or important. For example, "You don’t need to make a big deal out of it, it's really not that important."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I make a big deal about everything.

The New York Times

I didn't make a big deal out of it.

The New York Times

Make a big deal of trying to get comfortable.

WikiHow

"I don't want to make a big deal of it.

Independent

And then they'll make a big deal of it".

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm not going to make a big deal about it".

The New York Times

"They have to make a big deal out of it".

The New York Times

Why make a big deal out of nothing?

The New York Times - Science

"Make a big deal of every food introduction.

The New York Times

"I'm trying to not make a big deal of it.

The New York Times - Sports

He would not make a big deal of the incident.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "make a big deal". In formal settings, more neutral language might be preferable.

Common error

Avoid using "make a big deal" in highly formal or professional documents. Opt for phrases like "emphasize the importance" or "highlight the significance" to maintain a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a big deal" functions as a verb phrase that often acts as a predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of exaggerating the importance of something. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's commonly used to indicate overreacting or emphasizing something more than necessary.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

39%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a big deal" is a common and generally acceptable idiom used to describe the act of exaggerating the importance of something. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's often used to express disapproval of overreactions or to suggest that something is not as important as someone is making it out to be. While grammatically correct, its informal register makes it less suitable for formal or professional writing. Consider alternatives like "emphasize the importance" or "highlight the significance" in those contexts. Be mindful of the context and audience to ensure the phrase is used appropriately. The best practice is to understand the context before using it since it can be interpreted negatively or positively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a mountain out of a molehill

Illustrates turning a small issue into a large, overwhelming problem.

blow out of proportion

Indicates an overreaction or amplification of a situation's severity.

exaggerate the importance

Focuses on the act of magnifying the significance of something.

inflate the matter

Suggests expanding the importance or impact of something beyond its actual value.

magnify the problem

Suggests increasing the perceived size or severity of an issue.

overstate the significance

Highlights the act of representing something as more critical than it is.

amplify the concern

Focuses on increasing the level of worry or anxiety associated with something.

overemphasize the point

Highlights the act of giving undue stress to a particular aspect.

dramatize the situation

Emphasizes adding theatrical elements to an event to amplify its impact.

hype up the event

Emphasizes creating excessive excitement and publicity around an occurrence.

FAQs

What does it mean to "make a big deal" out of something?

To "make a big deal" out of something means to treat it as very important, often more important than it actually is. It can involve overreacting or exaggerating the significance of an event or issue.

When is it appropriate to "make a big deal" out of something?

It's appropriate to "make a big deal" out of something when you want to celebrate a significant achievement, show appreciation, or emphasize something truly important. However, avoid doing so for trivial matters.

What can I say instead of "make a big deal" if I want to be more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "emphasize the importance", "highlight the significance", or "stress the value" instead of "make a big deal".

Is it ever good to "make a big deal" out of something?

Yes, it can be positive to "make a big deal" out of achievements, milestones, or acts of kindness. This can reinforce positive behavior, show appreciation, and create a celebratory atmosphere. It's all about using it appropriately.