make a noise—
1. talk very much about smth.; make smth. the object of general comment:
- For all the great noise that is made about it, there is but little true faith in the world.
2. complain or argue about smth. in order to draw attention to it:
- The women were making a lot of noise about having a room of their own.
Note: The expression does not correlate in meaning with the phrase make a noise in the world—attain great fame or notoriety:
- He seemed a very lively young man, certain of his own abilities and eager to make a noise in the world.
make noises—express particular ideas, feelings, etc. not mentioning them directly:
- General Electric and Alcoa, for example, are making noises about getting into city building.
Note: The expression does not correlate in meaning with the phrase make the right noises—(also: make all the right noises) show concern, enthusiasm, etc. about smth. because one is expected to:
- She said I would have to come and visit her. I made the right noises, then changed the subject.