federal case

NOUN

minor problem made into a major issue

Synonyms

WEAK

big deal much ado about nothing storm in a teacup

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mangione has pleaded not guilty to the state charges and a separate federal case.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

In the past, they've asked Judge Carro to pause the proceedings while the federal case takes place, a request he has denied.

From BBC • Feb. 6, 2026

However, technology industry groups that count Google, Meta and Snap among their members are continuing with a federal case against the law.

From Barron's • Jan. 19, 2026

Landa-Rodriguez, 60, was acquitted in one federal case.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 27, 2025

She’d make a big federal case out of it like Big Ma had and write back and say things that made me feel bad or want to scratch my head.

From "P.S. Be Eleven" by Rita Williams-Garcia