Make matters worse
Meaning
To cause an already difficult or unpleasant situation to become even more problematic.
Origin
Unlike many English idioms with dramatic tales of their birth, 'make matters worse' finds its strength in its sheer, unvarnished directness. Its roots aren't in ancient rituals or bizarre practices, but in the straightforward power of language itself. This phrase is built from simple, sturdy words—'make,' 'matters,' 'worse'—combining to perfectly articulate the universal human experience of unintended consequences. From medieval scribes lamenting failed harvests to modern-day politicians grappling with policy blunders, the simple clarity of making something already bad even more so has ensured its timeless utility in the English lexicon, needing no hidden story to cement its place.
Examples
- I forgot my umbrella, and then, to make matters worse, it started to pour rain just as I left the office.
- The team was already losing, but the coach's harsh criticism only served to make matters worse, completely demoralizing the players.