make matters worse
To worsen an already difficult situation or unfavourable set of circumstances, typically by acting rashly, foolishly, or incompetently.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Don't argue with him, it will only make matters worse.”
“He tried to fix the broken pipe himself, but he accidentally made matters worse by flooding the entire kitchen floor.”
“By attempting to justify his previous errors during the board meeting, the manager only made matters worse and further alienated his frustrated colleagues.”
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absence makes the heart grow fonder
One feels more love or affection for those one loves when parted from them.
- 02
cannot make it
Cannot reach satisfactory or expected standards or do something competently; describes someone in a hopeless situation.
- 03
doctors make the worst patients
It is difficult to advise people on subjects that they are experts on.
- 04
enough to make a cat laugh
Very outlandish or outrageous.
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enough to make the angels weep
Something so distressing that it causes one to lose hope and faith.
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fine feathers make fine birds
Something that appears beautiful or good is by definition beautiful or good.
- 07
grey matter
Brains; a person's ability to think.
- 08
have it made
To have accomplished all there is to do; to have no further work or difficulty.
Last updated August 10, 2026