grand scheme

English

Etymology

Ellipsis of grand scheme of things.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ɡɹænd ˈskiːm/

• Audio (General Australian):

  (file)

Noun

grand scheme (plural grand schemes)

1. (idiomatic) The totality of the situation approached objectively; the big picture.

   Synonyms: big picture, scheme of things

2. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see grand,‎ scheme.

See also

• bigger fish to fry
• bird's-eye view
• gestalt
• gist
• overview
• see the forest for the trees