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Explaining “Do not make a mountain out of a mole hill”
Lloyd Cooper 07/10/2024, 10:32English.me team member
What does it mean?
The phrase means not to exaggerate a minor problem or turn something small into a bigger issue than it really is.
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Origin
The phrase is English in origin and has been used since at least the 16th century. It metaphorically compares the small size of a molehill (a small mound of earth created by moles) to the large size of a mountain, suggesting an exaggerated response.
Examples of usage
- She complained about the late delivery, but I told her not to make a mountain out of a molehill.
- I know you're upset about the typo in the report, but let's not make a mountain out of a molehill.
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