Phrase guide

federal case

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

An exaggerated ordeal; excessive fuss or indignation about some situation.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, informal

Examples

  • So I didn't put the toilet seat down — you don't have to make a federal case out of it.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see federal, case.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

In the United States of America, courts with federal jurisdiction generally are for much more serious offenses than those whose cases are heard by local courts.