get a complete picture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get a complete picture" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to say that you need to understand something in its totality, or when you want to describe collecting all the necessary information about something. Example: "We need to get a complete picture of the situation before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Leaders need multiple perspectives to get a complete picture.

Harvard Business Review

You will get a complete picture, right down to the go-go boots and teased mane.

The New York Times

To get a complete picture, leaders need to zoom in and zoom out.

Harvard Business Review

"Most times you don't get a complete picture," Dr. Matilsky said.

The New York Times - Tech

As another diner lamented, you'd need to go back 10 times to get a complete picture.

The New York Times

Ratings agencies also did not necessarily get a complete picture of the investments, according to the court filings.

The New York Times

As a result it takes time to get a complete picture and the full details are still emerging.

The Guardian

Thus we may not get a complete picture of what ground zero will look like until a decade from now.

The New York Times - Arts

In one place, you get a complete picture of your online social network and can post your own updates, too.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Use our Project Review Worksheet to get a complete picture of the benefits and costs of your failed project.

Harvard Business Review

"To really get a complete picture, you should extend the overall cookie period," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for a comprehensive understanding of a complex issue, use "get a complete picture" to emphasize the need to gather diverse information and perspectives.

Common error

Avoid making decisions or forming opinions based solely on initial impressions or limited data. Always strive to "get a complete picture" by seeking out additional information and perspectives to minimize bias and ensure accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get a complete picture" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of obtaining a full and comprehensive understanding of something. It emphasizes the process of gathering information to form a holistic view, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get a complete picture" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the importance of acquiring a comprehensive understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It's applicable across various contexts, especially in news, science, and business, encouraging thoroughness and a holistic perspective. To avoid errors, always strive to gather complete data before making decisions. Consider using alternatives like "obtain a holistic view" or "see the bigger picture" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

understand the whole situation

Directly emphasizes grasping the entirety of the circumstances.

see the bigger picture

This alternative highlights understanding the broader context and implications.

get the full story

This is a more informal way of saying "get a complete picture", focusing on the narrative aspect.

gain a thorough understanding

This phrase focuses on the depth and comprehensiveness of the knowledge acquired.

acquire a comprehensive overview

This option highlights the breadth of information obtained, providing a general but complete understanding.

obtain a holistic view

This alternative emphasizes the interconnectedness and comprehensiveness of the understanding.

develop a full perspective

This suggests a more nuanced and well-rounded understanding, considering multiple angles.

form a comprehensive impression

Emphasizes the overall understanding or judgment formed after considering all available information.

achieve a global understanding

Implies understanding something in its entirety on a larger scale.

ascertain all the facts

Focuses on verifying and gathering all relevant factual information.

FAQs

What does it mean to "get a complete picture" of something?

To "get a complete picture" means to gather all the necessary information and perspectives to fully understand a situation or topic. It involves looking at all aspects and details before forming an opinion or making a decision.

How can I "get a complete picture" in a research project?

In a research project, you can "get a complete picture" by consulting various sources, conducting thorough experiments, and analyzing data from different angles. Be sure to consider different viewpoints and potential biases.

What are some alternatives to saying "get a complete picture"?

You can use alternatives like "obtain a holistic view", "gain a thorough understanding", or "see the bigger picture" depending on the context.

Why is it important to "get a complete picture" before making a decision?

It's crucial to "get a complete picture" before deciding to ensure you have a well-rounded understanding, which minimizes risks of making uninformed or biased choices. It promotes fair, accurate, and effective outcomes.