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Region: US | Usage example: She bit off more than she could chew by volunteering for three committees.

Bite off more than you can chew

Meaning

Take on more responsibilities than you can handle.

Usage

Warning to stay within capacity.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Eating metaphor for taking too big a bite.

Common since early 1900s domestic advice columns.

Related Idioms

Bark is worse than its bite

A threat seems scary, but the person is harmless.

Tighter than a bull's butt at fly-time

Extremely tight, stingy, or uncomfortable.

So mad I could chew nails and spit bullets

Extremely angry, to the point of feeling violent.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.