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REFERENCE

bite off more than one can chew

idiom
Meaning

To try to do too much; to take on or attempt more than one is capable of doing.


Examples
SIMPLE

Don't bite off more than you can chew with this project.

CONTEXTUAL

He signed up for three extra classes, but he soon realized he had bitten off more than he could chew.

COMPLEX

By accepting the promotion while simultaneously finishing his degree, he clearly bit off more than he could chew and struggled to maintain his health.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all bark and no bite

    Full of big talk but lacking action, power, or substance; pretentious.

  2. 02

    as best one can

    In the best possible way, given one's circumstances and abilities.

  3. 03

    as far as one knows

    To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.

  4. 04

    back to square one

    Located back at the start, as after a dead end or failure.

  5. 05

    beat as one

    To share the same feelings.

  6. 06

    become one flesh

    To join together in marriage; to develop a unifying bond as a result of marrying.

  7. 07

    bite me

    An expression of discontent or aggravation to another party.

  8. 08

    bite my ass

    Go away!; an expression of disdain or dismissal.

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