fuss

Unnecessary worry, attention, or activity about something.

• There is no need for fuss.
• She organized the party without much fuss.
• I do not understand all the fuss about this change.

How to use it: fuss about/over something (There was too much fuss over a minor mistake.)

Similar words: bother, commotion

Common phrases: without much fuss, fuss about something, all the fuss

A noisy complaint or angry reaction to something.

• He made a fuss about the bill.
• The customer kicked up a fuss and demanded a refund.
• Why are you making such a fuss over one missing spoon?

How to use it: make a fuss about/over something (She made a fuss about the poor service.)

Similar words: protest, scene

Common phrases: make a fuss, a loud fuss, fuss about something

A warm show of attention, affection, or admiration toward someone or something.

• Everyone made a fuss of the baby.
• She loves the fuss her grandchildren make of her.
• They made a lovely fuss over our dog when we arrived.

How to use it: make a fuss of/over someone (Her grandparents always make a fuss of her.)

Similar words: affectionate attention

Common phrases: fuss over someone, make a fuss

To worry or become excited about something more than necessary.

• Please do not fuss.
• He fussed about every detail of the trip.
• She is always fussing over what the children eat.

How to use it: fuss over/about something (Stop fussing over your appearance.)

Similar words: worry, fret

Common phrases: fuss over something, fuss about something, fuss too much

To keep touching, moving, or adjusting something, often unnecessarily.

• Stop fussing with your hair.
• He fussed with his tie before the interview.
• She kept fussing with the flowers on the table.

How to use it: fuss with something (He fussed with the radio until it worked.)

Similar words: fiddle, fidget

Common phrases: fuss with something, fuss with clothes

To stroke or touch an animal gently to show affection.

• She fussed the cat.
• The dog likes being fussed behind his ears.
• He sat on the floor and fussed both puppies.

Similar words: pet, stroke

Common phrases: fuss a cat, fuss the dog