# grand scheme

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/grand-scheme
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The totality of the situation approached objectively; the big picture.

## Examples

- This small mistake does not matter in the grand scheme.
- Although the project feels stressful right now, it is quite minor in the grand scheme of our company goals.
- When viewed within the grand scheme of historical events, the temporary political disagreement seemed insignificant to the long-term stability of the nation.

## Origin

From the full phrase *grand scheme of things*, functioning as a linguistic ellipsis. The expression emerged in the early 19th century.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.