AI for Breakfast

Post 89 - It’s the weekend, Idiom of the Day

Bite off more than you can chew

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Figurative meaning

The idiom "bite off more than you can chew" means to take on a task that is too difficult, overwhelming, or too large to manage. It implies overestimating one's capacity or capabilities, leading to potential difficulty in completion or success.

Typical usage

This phrase is commonly used in both casual and professional contexts to advise caution against taking on excessive responsibilities or to describe situations where someone has already committed to more than they can handle. For example, someone might say, "She bit off more than she could chew by volunteering for three major projects at the same time."

Origin

The origin of "bite off more than you can chew" is believed to be distinctly American, with its first recorded use in the late 19th century. The phrase likely draws on the very physical act of biting off a piece of food so large that it is difficult to chew or swallow, a simple and relatable concept. It aptly metaphorizes the idea of overcommitment or overestimation of one's abilities in various endeavors, making it easily understood across diverse contexts.