broad scheme of things

USAGE SUMMARY

"broad scheme of things" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used as a way of looking at a broad perspective of a situation, usually taking into account the long-term. For example: "In the broad scheme of things, getting a better job is more important than buying a new car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

In the broad scheme of things, these are excellent times to be a billionaire.

The New York Times

Then again, Coverdells probably aren't costing much now in the broad scheme of things.

The New York Times

In the broad scheme of things, this was a blip on the radar," said Olbermann, in a telephone interview, citing the multitudinous cases when right-wing talk-show hosts have said much worse.

The New York Times

This is now fast depreciating, which is both inevitable and, in the broad scheme of things, necessary; but it will drive up inflation and encourage all who can to get their money out of the country's banks to do so.

The Economist

As for finding himself at center stage with the man who ordered him killed, Mr. Mishal insisted that in the broad scheme of things, Mr. Netanyahu is just one more in a succession of prime ministers.

The New York Times

In the broad scheme of things, Liu represents the pure old ways, while Lili and her feckless boyfriends are the avid harbingers of a soulless but seductive consumer culture that is taking root.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"I suspect he would trade Virginia for Alito" in the broader scheme of things, Mr. Smith said.

The New York Times

My biggest complaint with the movie is that "American Idol" and talent shows like it aren't all that evil in the broader scheme of things.

The New York Times

But in the broader scheme of things, these moves won't be enough on their own to tilt the world's energy supply away from coal.

The Washington Post

Thus the graphically expressed itinerary serves as a backdrop for consideration of the individual's place in the broader scheme of things.

The New York Times

Efforts to extend the Martha Stewart brand into magazines aimed at brides and children have been well received, but those are small businesses in the broader scheme of things.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "broad scheme of things" when you want to emphasize considering the long-term implications or overall context of a situation, rather than focusing on immediate details.

Common error

Avoid using "broad scheme of things" when you simply mean something is large or widespread. This phrase implies considering the overall context, not just the size of something. If you only need to express something's size or scale, consider using "large scale" or "widespread" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad scheme of things" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause by providing context or perspective. Ludwig's AI confirms its proper usage in indicating a larger context or overall perspective.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "broad scheme of things" is a useful idiom for emphasizing the importance of considering the bigger picture and long-term implications. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. While not as frequent as other similar phrases like ""grand scheme of things"", it is still commonly encountered in news, business, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that you are truly referring to the overall context and not simply describing something large. By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, you can effectively communicate the importance of perspective and foresight.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grand scheme of things

Focuses more on the importance or scale of the overall context.

broader perspective

Highlights the act of widening one's view.

overall context

Emphasizes the surrounding circumstances.

larger picture

Uses a visual metaphor for understanding the whole.

big picture

A more informal way of saying 'larger picture'.

general overview

Suggests a summary or outline of the main points.

holistic view

Implies considering all aspects as interconnected.

long-term perspective

Specifically considers the effects over a prolonged period.

global view

Suggests a worldwide scope or impact.

comprehensive understanding

Highlights thoroughness and completeness in grasping the situation.

FAQs

What does "broad scheme of things" mean?

The phrase "broad scheme of things" refers to considering a situation within its larger context, taking into account long-term implications and overall significance.

How can I use "broad scheme of things" in a sentence?

You can use "broad scheme of things" to indicate that you are considering the larger context of a situation. For example, "In the "grand scheme of things", this small setback won't matter much."

Which phrases are similar to "broad scheme of things"?

Similar phrases include "overall context", "big picture", and ""grand scheme of things"", all of which refer to understanding the bigger picture.

Is it better to use "broad" or "grand" scheme of things?

Both "broad scheme of things" and ""grand scheme of things"" are correct. "Grand" often emphasizes the importance or scale, while "broad" simply refers to the wider context.