What Does "bite off more than you can chew" Mean?

bite off more than you can chew means take on too much.

Detailed Explanation

The idiom 'bite off more than you can chew' is widely used in everyday English to express the idea that take on too much. Unlike literal phrases, this idiom relies on shared cultural understanding rather than direct interpretation. Native speakers often choose this idiom because it communicates meaning efficiently and emotionally. In real conversations, it may appear in professional settings, casual discussions, or storytelling. Understanding this idiom allows learners to follow conversations more naturally and respond appropriately. Over time, 'bite off more than you can chew' has become a fixed expression in English, meaning it is recognized instantly by fluent speakers without needing further explanation. Learning how and when to use it helps improve fluency, comprehension, and confidence in real-world communication.

Real‑World Example

In a real workplace situation, someone might use 'bite off more than you can chew' when discussing a recent experience. For example, after a difficult project unexpectedly leads to a promotion or new opportunity, a colleague may describe the situation using this idiom to highlight how the outcome was better than expected.

Example Sentences