bite off more than you can chew
Meaning
To take on a task or responsibility that is too difficult or too much to handle.
Origin
From the literal idea of taking too large a bite of food to chew comfortably; used figuratively from at least the late 1800s to warn against overcommitting.
Notes
Suggests overcommitment beyond one’s ability/resources. Often mildly cautionary or critical. Used in everyday and business contexts; saying it to others can sound judgmental.
Examples
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I think I bit off more than I can chew by taking three night classes while working full-time.
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They bit off more than they could chew when they promised to deliver the entire project in two weeks.
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If you bite off more than you can chew, you’ll end up stressed and missing deadlines.
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She realized she had bitten off more than she could chew after agreeing to run the event alone.
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We may have bitten off more than we can chew, so let’s ask for help before it’s too late.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed pattern: “bite off more than you can chew.” Pronouns can change (“I can,” “she can”), and tense can inflect (“bit off,” “has bitten off”). Often used with “might/may” and “I think.”
Synonyms
- take on too much
- overcommit
- get in over your head
- overextend yourself
Antonyms
- know your limits
- manage comfortably
- handle with ease