Don't focus on details and miss the forest for the trees.
see the forest for the trees
idiomTo discern an overall pattern from a mass of detail; to see the big picture, or the broader, more general situation.
Origin
first recorded 16th c.John Heywood documented the English use of the proverb in 1546.
The manager was so worried about small budget changes that she couldn't see the forest for the trees.
Lost in the minutiae of daily polling data, the campaign strategist failed to see the forest for the trees, missing the broader shift in public mood that would decide the election.
- 01
charm the birds from the trees
To behave in a very charming manner.
- 02
for all the world to see
in plain view; clearly visible
- 03
I see, said the blind man
Expressing confusion.
- 04
I'd like to see someone try
Expressing a threat or challenge to someone.
- 05
kill trees
To use paper.
- 06
long time no see
I (or we) have not seen you for a long time.
- 07
miss the forest for the trees
Alternative form of cannot see the forest for the trees.
- 08
miss the wood for the trees
Alternative form of cannot see the forest for the trees.