Bite off more than you can chew

Pro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

This phrase is used metaphorically to describe overcommitting, not literally chewing.

Getting into three sports at once, she's bitten off more than she can chew.

Pro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

It suggests a negative outcome from taking on too much.

He bit off more than he could chew and missed all his project deadlines.

Pro Tip 3/3

Use with Caution

Avoid using this phrase in formal or professional contexts as it can seem informal.

In the meeting, I didn't say he'd bitten off more than he could chew.