in a stew (to be) [exp]

Meaning:

• to be unhappy or worried because something bad has happened.

Examples:

1. No need to be in stew. We will find you wallet that you have lost.
2. He’s in a stew over the budget report, but it’s just a minor error.
3. Don’t get in a stew about the gossip; it’s not worth your energy.
4. After forgetting her lines during rehearsal, she was in a stew for the rest of the evening.
5. She’s in a stew over what to wear for her first date.
6. You’re in a stew for no reason; the presentation went perfectly!
7. The team was in a stew after receiving conflicting instructions from management.