The phrase "bit off more than one can chew" means to have taken on a task or challenge that is too difficult to handle or complete. Synonyms for this phrase include "overreached," "undertook too much," "out of one's depth," "overpromised," "overcommitted," and "stretched oneself too thin." These phrases all convey the idea of having taken on more than one can handle, often resulting in an inability to follow through or complete a task successfully. When faced with a difficult task, it is important to consider one's abilities and limitations in order to avoid biting off more than one can chew.