Make a mountain out of a molehill

Meaning

Exaggerate minor issues.

Usage

Used to caution against overreacting.

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.

Geographical comparison showing disproportionate reaction.

Proverb dating back to at least the 16th century.