Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
break-a-butterfly-on-a-wheel
Idiom
/breɪk ə ˈbʌtərflaɪ ɒn ə wiːl/
Definition
To use excessive force to deal with a minor issue, often leading to needless destruction.
Examples
- Using so much time and energy on such a small mistake is like breaking a butterfly on a wheel.
- Her reaction to the minor criticism was an example of breaking a butterfly on a wheel.
Meaning
This phrase conveys the idea of blowing a small problem out of proportion or employing disproportionate measures in response to a trivial situation.
Synonyms
- Use a sledgehammer to crack a nut
- Make a mountain out of a molehill
- Overreact
