[bite] off more than {sb} (can|could) chew
1
to attempt to do something that is beyond one's capability
The idiom "bite off more than someone can chew" is used to describe a situation where someone has taken on a task or responsibility that is too difficult or overwhelming for them to handle. The phrase draws from the act of taking a bite of food that is too large to chew comfortably.
- They bit off more than they could chew trying to organize the event without enough resources.
- He warned her not to bite off more than she could chew with such an ambitious goal.
- Don't bite off more than you can chew by promising to finish the task in one day.
- He bit off more than he could chew by agreeing to lead two projects at once.
- By taking on the job and planning a wedding simultaneously, she clearly bit off more than she could chew.