Quick answer: “Make a mountain out of a molehill” means to treat a minor problem as if it were much more serious than it is.
Make a mountain out of a molehill — To treat a minor problem as if it were much more serious or important than it really is; to exaggerate a small issue.
Origin & History
The image contrasts a molehill — the small mound of earth pushed up by a burrowing mole — with a mountain, an enormous natural feature, to highlight the absurdity of exaggerating something small into something huge.
The expression has been recorded in English since at least the 16th century and remains one of the most common idioms for over-exaggeration. Figurative expressions of this kind are the sort of entry catalogued by major reference works such as the Cambridge Dictionary, which track how idiomatic meanings develop and spread.
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| It's just a small typo — don't make a mountain out of a molehill. | Reassurance |
| He tends to make a mountain out of a molehill whenever plans change slightly. | Personality trait |
| The argument over one late email was really making a mountain out of a molehill. | Workplace conflict |
| Try not to make a mountain out of a molehill before you know all the facts. | Advice |
Dialogue Example
A: I can't believe they changed the meeting time by ten minutes!
B: Come on, don't make a mountain out of a molehill — it's not a big deal.
Common Mistakes
Mistakes to Avoid
Make a mountain of a molehill.
Make a mountain out of a molehill. — The correct preposition is 'out of', not 'of'.
Make a molehill out of a mountain.
Make a mountain out of a molehill. — The word order cannot be reversed; the small thing is the 'molehill'.
Make a mountain from a molehill.
Make a mountain out of a molehill. — The fixed preposition is 'out of', not 'from'.
Similar Idioms
Practise This Idiom
Practice English Idioms
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Quick Check: Make a mountain out of a molehill
2 questions — test what you just learned.
1. What does “Make a mountain out of a molehill” mean?
2. Complete the sentence: “It's just a small typo — don't _____.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "make a mountain out of a molehill" mean?
"Make a mountain out of a molehill" means to treat a minor problem as if it were much more serious or important than it really is.
Where does "make a mountain out of a molehill" come from?
The image contrasts a small molehill with an enormous mountain to highlight the absurdity of exaggeration. It has been recorded in English since the 16th century.
Can you give an example of "make a mountain out of a molehill" in a sentence?
"It's just a small typo — don't make a mountain out of a molehill." It is used to criticise overreaction.
Is "make a mountain out of a molehill" formal or informal?
It is neutral and usable in both spoken and written English, including semi-formal contexts.
What CEFR level is "make a mountain out of a molehill"?
This idiom is typically taught at B2 level, as the longer figurative structure requires solid comprehension skills.
What are common mistakes with "make a mountain out of a molehill"?
Common mistakes include changing the preposition to 'of' or 'from', or reversing the order of 'mountain' and 'molehill'.
What idioms are similar to "make a mountain out of a molehill"?
Similar idioms include: Blow out of proportion, Overreact, Much ado about nothing. These describe exaggerating a minor issue.
How do I practise idioms like "make a mountain out of a molehill"?
Use LexFizz's Flash Cards and Flip Tiles, and describe a situation where someone exaggerated a small problem.
Can "make a mountain out of a molehill" be used in writing?
Yes, it is common in articles, advice columns, and semi-formal writing about conflict or overreaction.
Does "make a mountain out of a molehill" have the same meaning in British and American English?
Yes, it is understood identically in both, and is widely recognised across all major varieties of English.