make a mess of

phrase

: to ruin (something) or make many mistakes in doing (something)

I made a mess of my speech.

Examples of make a mess of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Spills, crumbs, and grease from splattering casseroles and bubbling pies can make a mess of your oven, and the oven racks aren’t spared from the turmoil. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 5 July 2026

Spills, crumbs, and grease from splattering casseroles and bubbling pies can make a mess of your oven, and the oven racks aren’t spared from the turmoil. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 6 Feb. 2026

Recent rains mean water levels in harbors are already higher, and there’s a chance of overspill during early-morning hours that could make a mess of Pacific Coast Highway in low-lying areas such as Sunset Beach. — Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 31 Dec. 2025

Science fiction has more vividly imagined how humanity might try to reverse climate change and make a mess of it. — Alexander C. Kaufman, The Atlantic, 24 Nov. 2025

Between the pot to boil water, a pan to simmer sauce, various cookware pieces, and kitchen utensils, a pasta dinner night can make a mess of dirty dishes. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 18 Sep. 2025

While moles typically make a mess of lawns, voles can be destructive throughout your garden. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2025

Powdery mildew is common plant disease that can quickly make a mess of your roses. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 July 2025

Two education budget curveballs could make a mess of public school budgets this year. — Lily Altavena, Freep.com, 3 July 2025

Rhymes for make a mess of

• above
• foxglove
• hereof
• thereof
• whereof
• dove
• glove
• love
• shove
• hereinabove