make a big fuss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a big fuss" is a valid and common phrase in written English.
It means to make a show of being very upset or excited about something. Example: "My daughter made a big fuss when she saw the puppy I bought her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not that I make a big fuss about it.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is perhaps not in our interests to make a big fuss.

Independent

Father and Mother don't make a big fuss over Frances' bedtime imaginings.

The New York Times

We'll make a big fuss over your pictures, we're like that at wordofmouth.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"People have tried to make a big fuss that this document has been forged.

The New York Times

But "Solaris" is too coolheaded to make a big fuss over such imagery.

The New York Times

The caption says: "Some people make a big fuss about putting tits on page 3.

The Guardian

However, these governments found it more politically convenient to ignore U.S. spying than to make a big fuss.

The Washington Post

When I go for dinner I don't make a big fuss; I try not to go to many dinners though.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The security were watching that but did not move because they did want to make a big fuss about it.

The Guardian

You know, people make a big fuss over me and what I can do for their teeth, but going to the museum, that gives me a good perspective.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing dialogue, "make a big fuss" can add character to the speaker, especially if they tend to downplay or exaggerate situations.

Common error

While "make a big fuss" is widely understood, it can sound informal in academic or professional contexts. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "express concern" or "raise objections" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a big fuss" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It typically involves a subject (the one making the fuss) and often a prepositional phrase indicating the object of the fuss (e.g. "about" or "over" something). Ludwig confirms its validity in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

17%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make a big fuss" is a common phrase used to describe an excessive or unnecessary reaction to something. Ludwig's analysis indicates it is grammatically correct and widely accepted, although it leans towards a neutral to informal register. While versatile, it's best to consider the context and audience, opting for more formal alternatives in professional or academic writing. The phrase is commonly found in news articles, blog posts, and general conversational writing. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and offers a variety of real-world examples showcasing its usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a big commotion

Replaces "fuss" with "commotion", emphasizing the disruptive nature of the reaction.

make a big scene

Emphasizes the public and often dramatic nature of the reaction.

kick up a fuss

Uses a more informal and idiomatic verb phrase.

raise a ruckus

Implies a noisy and disruptive disturbance.

make a mountain out of a molehill

Highlights the disproportionate reaction to a minor issue.

get worked up

Focuses on the emotional agitation involved.

create a stir

Suggests causing excitement or controversy.

make an uproar

Indicates a loud and often angry public reaction.

go ballistic

Emphasizes an extreme and uncontrolled reaction.

cause a stink

Implies creating a negative and unpleasant situation.

FAQs

What does "make a big fuss" mean?

The phrase "make a big fuss" means to create unnecessary excitement, worry, or activity about something, often a minor issue. It implies an overreaction.

How can I use "make a big fuss" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe someone's reaction to an event, like "She made a big fuss about the stain on her dress" or to suggest avoiding an overreaction: "Let's not "make a big fuss" over such a small mistake".

What can I say instead of "make a big fuss"?

You can use alternatives like "make a big commotion", "make a big deal", or "raise a ruckus" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "make a big fuss about" or "make a big fuss over"?

Both "make a big fuss about" and "make a big fuss over" are acceptable and commonly used. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific rhythm of the sentence. The meaning remains the same.