en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

Explaining "Do not make a mountain out of a mole hill"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 07/10/2024, 10:32
English.me team member

What does it mean?

Do not make a mountain out of a mole hill

The phrase means not to exaggerate a minor problem or turn something small into a bigger issue than it really is.

Tone

Advisory

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.

Recommended posts in Phrases

You are never too old to learn

You are never too old to learn

The phrase means that one can always gain new knowledge ... Learn more →

You must have rocks in your head

You must have rocks in your head

The phrase "You must have rocks in your head" is ... Learn more →

Youth is wasted on the young

Youth is wasted on the young

The phrase suggests that young people often fail to fully ... Learn more →

Nothing ventured, nothing gained

Nothing ventured, nothing gained

The proverb "Nothing ventured, nothing gained" means that taking risks ... Learn more →