makes a fuss about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "makes a fuss about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who is overly concerned or agitated about something, often in a way that seems unnecessary. Example: "She always makes a fuss about the smallest details when planning events."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

She added: "The media makes a fuss about something.

The Guardian - Tech

What kind of ungracious skinflint makes a fuss about 56 pence a year?

The Guardian - Opinion

Everyone makes a fuss about twins, especially when they're young, but it's the only thing I've ever known.

The New York Times

Their widespread implementation, however, depends to a great degree on how much the public makes a fuss about inaction.

The Economist

"You're not allowed to walk down the street with alcohol," he said, "and no one makes a fuss about that".

The New York Times

You might say that he's drawn to it and needs it, but he never makes a fuss about what he's doing.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

On matters that Westerners make a fuss about, like human rights, Fallows presents the common Chinese viewpoint.

The New York Times - Books

Don't make a fuss about your pal's tweets.

The New York Times

No one in Europe is making a fuss about that.

The Guardian - Opinion

Why have MPs not been making a fuss about this?

The Guardian - Opinion

I'm not prepared to make a fuss about it".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makes a fuss about" to describe someone who reacts to minor issues with disproportionate concern or agitation. It's best suited for informal or neutral contexts.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid using "makes a fuss about" in formal or academic writing. Opt for more professional alternatives such as "raises concerns" or "objects to" for a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makes a fuss about" functions as a verb phrase describing an action. It indicates that someone is creating unnecessary or excessive concern or agitation regarding a particular matter. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "makes a fuss about" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes someone who overreacts or becomes overly concerned about something, according to Ludwig AI. While suitable for a wide range of writing, it's often seen in journalistic and informal works. For professional and academic purposes, more sophisticated options should be considered such as "expresses concerns" or "objects to". The phrase indicates disapproval and criticism when communicating. The context it appears is often News and Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gets worked up

Emphasizes the emotional state of becoming agitated or anxious.

becomes agitated

Highlights the emotional state of becoming disturbed or upset.

creates a scene

Suggests a public or noticeable display of annoyance or anger.

makes a scene

Similar to "creates a scene", indicating a noticeable public display.

kicks up a stink

Implies a stronger reaction and greater disturbance than "makes a fuss about".

complains incessantly

Highlights the repetitive and persistent nature of the complaints.

raises objections

Focuses on voicing disagreement or opposition, potentially in a formal setting.

gets in a tizzy

Indicates a state of nervous excitement or confusion.

protests vehemently

Shows strong and forceful opposition.

expresses displeasure

Formally communicates dissatisfaction or disapproval.

FAQs

What does "makes a fuss about" mean?

The phrase "makes a fuss about" means to show excessive concern, worry, or excitement over something, often something trivial or unimportant.

What can I say instead of "makes a fuss about"?

You can use alternatives like "kicks up a stink", "creates a scene", or "raises objections" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "makes a fuss about" in formal writing?

While the phrase is grammatically correct, it's generally more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "expresses concerns" or "objects to" for a more professional tone.

How can I use "makes a fuss about" in a sentence?

Example: "She always makes a fuss about the smallest details when planning events", or "He makes a fuss about everything, even when it's not a big deal".