What does “Can't see the forest for its trees” mean?
"Can't see the forest for its trees" means to be unable to see the bigger picture because you are too focused on the small details.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He's so obsessed with grammar that he can't see the forest for its trees when it comes to writing.
Example
The manager is can't see the forest for its trees when it comes to the overall strategy of the company.
Example
She's so caught up in the minor issues that she can't see the forest for its trees and fails to address the main problem
Is “Can't see the forest for its trees” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Can't see the forest for its trees” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Can't see the forest for its trees” effectively in context?
You can use "Can't see the forest for its trees" to describe someone who is so focused on the small details that they fail to see the bigger picture or understand the overall situation. It emphasizes the idea of being too caught up in the specifics to see the broader context. For example, if a colleague is overly concerned with minor formatting issues in a report and fails to address the main content, you might say, 'He's so obsessed with grammar that he can't see the forest for its trees when it comes to writing.'
- 1Writing
He's so obsessed with grammar that he can't see the forest for its trees when it comes to writing.
- 2Business
The manager is can't see the forest for its trees when it comes to the overall strategy of the company.
- 3Problem-solving
She's so caught up in the minor issues that she can't see the forest for its trees and fails to address the main problem.
Similar phrases to “Can't see the forest for its trees”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Can't see the forest for its trees” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Can't see the forest for its trees" is unknown.
Is “Can't see the forest for its trees” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Can't see the forest for its trees" is a common idiom used in everyday conversation. It is often used to highlight the importance of seeing the bigger picture and not getting too caught up in the details.
What tone does “Can't see the forest for its trees” have?
"Can't see the forest for its trees" conveys a tone of criticism or frustration. It is typically used to point out someone's inability to understand the overall situation due to their excessive focus on small details.
Can “Can't see the forest for its trees” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Can't see the forest for its trees" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as work, personal relationships, or discussions about broader issues. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's so focused on the minor details that he can't see the forest for its trees.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'She really can't see the forest for its trees!' to imply someone's lack of perspective.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- myopic
- narrow-minded
- detail-oriented
- microscopic view
- obsessed with minutiae
Antonyms
- see the big picture
- broad-minded
- holistic view
- focus on the main issue
