make a fuss

1. 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.

2. 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

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.

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The day began with gifts and a song, and there were friends close at hand to share jokes and make a fuss.

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“Poor Incorrigibles! It would be terribly unkind of me to make a fuss about turning sixteen, given the circumstances.”

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“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.”

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Gavin and Stacey star Joanna Page says she initially stayed silent after being groped by a TV host because she did not want to "make a fuss".

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Related Words

• afflict 
• agitate 
• annoy 
• burden 
• concern 
• disconcert 
• disturb 
• irk 
• irritate 
• perplex 
• perturb 
• plague 
• sadden 
• strain 
• torment 
• upset 
• vex