a/the devil of a (something)

Used as an intensifier to indicate an extreme degree of something, especially that which is difficult, frustrating, or vexing. I'm having the devil of a time getting this computer to work. Something must be wrong with it. We knew it would be a devil of a job overhauling the entire network, but it was unavoidable. These weeds can become a devil of a nuisance if you let them grow for too long.

make a nuisance of (oneself)

To become a source of disruption, irritation, or difficulty (for someone or something). We have to make a nuisance of ourselves, or these companies will never take our complaints seriously. I'm sorry to be making a nuisance of myself, but the boss told me to shadow you while you work and ask any questions I might have.

See also: make, nuisance, of

nuisance value

The importance of a person or thing relative to their ability to cause problems or vexation. Sure, an old car looks really cool, but replacement parts are so hard to find that it's got a high nuisance value.

make a nuisance of oneself

to be a constant bother. I'm sorry to make a nuisance of myself, but I do need an answer to my question. Stop making a nuisance of yourself and wait your turn.

See also: make, nuisance, of

make a nuisance of oneself

Bother or annoy others, as in That child is making a nuisance of himself.

See also: make, nuisance, of

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

make a nuisance of yourself

cause trouble and annoyance, usually deliberately or avoidably.

See also: make, nuisance, of

a/the ˈdevil of a job, nuisance, fellow, etc.

(old-fashioned) a difficult or an unpleasant example of something: We’re going to have a devil of a job getting the roots of that tree out of the ground.