Search
to have a lot on one's plate
01
to have a certain amount of tasks or problems that need to be dealt with
![to [have] (a lot|too much) on {one's} plate definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/19622/original/multitask?type=jpeg "to [have] (a lot|too much) on {one's} plate definition and meaning")
IdiomWhat is the origin of the idiom "have something on one's plate" and when to use it?
The phrase "have something on one's plate" is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century and is a reference to the idea of a plate being a metaphorical representation of one's workload or responsibilities. It is used to describe a situation where someone has a lot of tasks, responsibilities, or problems to deal with.
Example
The CEO was juggling multiple projects, each one a major undertaking, so she had a lot on her plate.
With the upcoming election, the politician had a lot on his plate, including campaign events, fundraising, and strategy meetings.
I have a lot on my plate right now, but I'll get to those emails by the end of the day.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's probably because you have too much on your plate right now.
Nearby Words
