larger scheme of things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "larger scheme of things" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a broader perspective or context in which a particular situation or event is considered. Example: "While this setback is disappointing, we must remember it is just a small part of the larger scheme of things."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They're accumulations of incident within a larger scheme of things.

The Guardian - Arts

But in the larger scheme of things, the city should spend money to protect citizens' health.

The New York Times

"In the larger scheme of things, they won't make a huge difference".

The New York Times

But in the larger scheme of things, Congress is an annoyance.

The New Yorker

In the larger scheme of things, perhaps they've been over-estimating their messianic abilities.

The Guardian

In the larger scheme of things, it is hard to choose between Crosby and Ovechkin.

The New York Times - Sports

These are fairly minor problems in the larger scheme of things.

The New York Times

In the larger scheme of things, team results matter more than personal achievements to Jeter.

The New York Times - Sports

There are differences between the candidates, of course, but they are fairly minor in the larger scheme of things.

The New Yorker

Of course, in the larger scheme of things, our soft spot for pandas has not counted for much.

The Guardian

And even advocates wondered at times about the place of these categories in the larger scheme of things.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "larger scheme of things" when you want to encourage your audience to consider a situation from a more comprehensive and far-reaching viewpoint, rather than focusing on immediate or isolated details. For example, in project management, remind your team that minor setbacks are insignificant in the "larger scheme of things".

Common error

While "larger scheme of things" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively. Over-reliance on the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive and uninspired. Try using alternatives like "the bigger picture" or "overall context" to add variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "larger scheme of things" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to provide context. It indicates that something should be considered from a broader perspective, as seen in Ludwig examples where it emphasizes the relative insignificance of minor problems or the importance of team results over personal achievements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "larger scheme of things" is a versatile expression used to encourage a broader perspective and contextualize specific events. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and its frequent use across news, media, and academic sources demonstrates its widespread acceptance. When writing, remember that while it's a valuable phrase, avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "bigger picture" or "overall context". As the examples provided by Ludwig indicate, understanding the "larger scheme of things" allows for better decision-making and a more balanced outlook, making this a vital part of effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bigger picture

Focuses on the overall view, often implying a simplification of details.

the big picture

An alternative phrasing of "bigger picture", more casually.

larger context

Similar to "overall context" but can refer to historical or societal factors.

overall context

Highlights the surrounding circumstances and conditions.

broader perspective

Emphasizes a wider viewpoint, often suggesting objectivity.

general scheme

The phrase is more succinct, conveying the essence of a broader plan or framework.

holistic view

Implies considering all aspects of something as interconnected.

grand design

Implies a deliberate and often predetermined plan.

macro view

Suggests an examination of large-scale patterns and trends.

global perspective

Specifically relates to a worldwide or international view.

FAQs

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

You can use "larger scheme of things" to emphasize the importance of considering the broader context of a situation. For example, "In the "larger scheme of things", this small error is insignificant."

What is a good alternative to "larger scheme of things"?

Alternatives include "bigger picture", "overall context", or "grand design", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in the grand scheme of things" instead of "in the larger scheme of things"?

Yes, "in the "grand scheme of things"" is a common and acceptable alternative. It carries a similar meaning, emphasizing the broader perspective.

What does it mean to consider something in the "larger scheme of things"?

It means to assess its significance or impact by considering its place within a broader, more comprehensive context. This often involves looking beyond immediate concerns or details to understand the overall implications.