make a fuss
Idioms-
Cause a needless commotion or display, as in I'm sure he'll be here soon; please don't make a fuss . It is also often put as , as in He's making a fuss about nothing , or If you make a fuss over the small budget items, what will it be like when we discuss the big ones? The idiom dates from about 1800, although the use of fuss in this sense is a century older.
-
make a fuss over someone . Treat someone with excessive attention, solicitude, or affection, as in Whenever they visit Grandma she makes a fuss over the children . [1920s]
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
She realized her error at once but thought it best not to make a fuss over crossing it out, as it would simply draw attention to the name, and she would soon be safely at sea in any case.
From Literature
The day began with gifts and a song, and there were friends close at hand to share jokes and make a fuss.
From Literature
“It is true that the students at Swanburne are all girls, and that the teachers are nearly all women—but there are some men there as well, like my old friend Dr. Westminster, who cares for the animals. And boys are certainly welcome as visitors. In fact, all three of you children have been specially invited by Miss Mortimer. I am sure everyone will make a fuss over you.”
From Literature
“Poor Incorrigibles! It would be terribly unkind of me to make a fuss about turning sixteen, given the circumstances.”
From Literature
Instead, they'd rather make a fuss over their special guests.
From BBC
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
