Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
make-a-meal-of-something
idiomatic expression
/meɪk ə miːl ʌv ˈsʌmθɪŋ/
Definition
To take a long time to do something simple, often making it more complicated than necessary.
Examples
- Instead of just sending a quick email, she made a meal of it by writing a long letter.
- He tends to make a meal of the simplest projects, dragging them out for days.
- Why are you making a meal of this? It should be an easy decision!
Meaning
This phrase implies that someone is unnecessarily elaborating on a task, turning something straightforward into a lengthy or complex affair.
Synonyms
- Overcomplicate
- To exaggerate
- To dwell on
- To prolong
