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Region: General | Usage example: The argument was only a tempest in a teapot.

Tempest in a teapot

Meaning

A large reaction over a small issue.

Usage

Used to urge perspective.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Metaphor likening a storm to boiling pot commotion.

Used in the 19th century to urge calm.

Related Idioms

Tip of the iceberg

A small visible part of a much larger issue.

A stitch in time saves nine

Fixing small problems now prevents bigger ones later.

The devil is in the details

Small issues cause big problems if ignored.

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.