To discern an overall pattern from a mass of detail; to see the bigger picture, or the broader, more general situation. Generally used in the negative.
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Smith is good at detail, but can't see the forest for the trees.

Submitted on September 01, 2009

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    "see the forest for the trees." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/see-the-forest-for-the-trees_6632>.

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