Don't exaggerate or build up the importance of something; don't make a big deal out of something. The phrase is often used to complain that someone is exaggerating a problem or alleged wrongdoing. So I ate your leftovers. Geez, don't make a federal case out of it!A: "I know you borrowed my new sweater without asking me first." B: "Oh, come on, don't make a federal case out of it."
Don’t make a federal case out of it!
sent. Don’t make such a fuss!; This isn’t as important as you are making it. So, I dropped a whole dozen eggs! I’ll clean it up. Don’t make a federal case out of it!