make a federal case out ofmake a federal case (out) of (something)
American to make something seem more important or serious than it really is.
He only swore at you - there's no need to make a federal case out of it!
(usually negative)
make a federal case (out) of (something)
To exaggerate or build up the importance of something; to 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!I'm not trying to make a federal case out of it, but I know you stole my new sweater!
make a federal case out of something
and make a big deal about something
to exaggerate the seriousness of something. Come on. It was nothing! Don't make a federal case out of it.I only stepped on your toe. Don't make a big deal about it.