big picture

plural big pictures

1. The totality of a situation.

   Having laid out these big-picture figures, the report then begins its analysis of traffic types against route mileage.

   2023 March 8, Gareth Dennis, “The Reshaping of things to come...”, in RAIL, number 978, page 46

   4 more examples

   I do not care whether it is placed or not, if I get my stuff to that ship. Now, it is my job to look at the big picture.

   1941, United States House Merchant Marine and Fisheries, Merchant-marine inquiry forwarders: Executive hearings, page 35

   We need somebody who will overlook the petty details, look at the big picture, decide what is necessary to end the war, make a plan,

   1951, US Senate Committee on Armed Services, Military situation in the Far East, page 3089

   I met an executive from Missouri who turned around a failing plant by sharing information with employees about the company's performance. When the employees understood the big picture, they did even better at their jobs.

   1993, Bill Clinton, Presidential Radio Address - 31 July 1993

   In the prewedding whirlwind of bridal showers, dress shopping, and parties, even the most budget savvy bridesmaids can overspend by mistake. Because the events span several months, it can be easy to lose track of the big picture and splurge at each event.

   2002, Kate Chynoweth, Neryl Walker, The Bridesmaid Guide

   Synonyms: grand scheme, thirty-thousand-foot view, bird's-eye view

2. IrelandUKdatedThe main film in a double feature.
3. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see big, picture.