How to Memorize

the incident was blown out of proportion

Analysis

If you 'blow something out of proportion', you have a disproportionate reaction or a reaction that isn't suitable to the issue at hand. This means to exaggerate or to have an extreme emotional reaction or sanction consequences that are not merited: "We have several processes in place for dealing with this issue. I feel we are blowing it out of proportion, as there was only one incident and it was relatively minor."

Social Examples (Basic)

1. The Pilot told the Investigator that the incident on the runway was blown out of proportion.
2. The woman said the argument in the restaurant had been blown out of proportion by the Manager.
3. Things aren't as bad as you think. He really blew it all out of proportion.

Professional Examples (Basic)

1. There's no need to blow all this out of proportion. I only spilt a little coffee on your proposal document.
2. I made a mistake and I apologised. There's no need to blow it all out of proportion.

Further Suggestions