Have bigger fish to fry
"Have bigger fish to fry" is an idiomatic expression used to convey that someone has more important or pressing matters to attend to than the current topic or situation being discussed. The phrase originates from the world of fishing, where the size of the fish being caught is a measure of success and significance. In this context, "bigger fish" represents more substantial or consequential issues or tasks that demand attention or priority over lesser concerns.
When someone says they "have bigger fish to fry," they are indicating that they are dealing with matters of greater significance or urgency and cannot afford to focus on minor or trivial matters. This expression is often used to politely decline involvement in something perceived as less important or irrelevant compared to other pressing responsibilities or concerns. It implies a sense of prioritization and pragmatism, emphasizing the need to allocate time and resources effectively to address more critical issues or achieve more substantial goals.