taking a wider view

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking a wider view" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance of considering broader perspectives or contexts in a situation or analysis. Example: "In order to fully understand the implications of this policy, we should be taking a wider view of its potential impact on the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

That said, taking a wider view of women's earning potential shows the myopia of a month-by-month assessment of income versus expenditures.

The Economist

Taking a wider view, it features many of the same artists as currently in Paris (also seen previously in the capital and in Lille).

The Guardian

Jo Appleyard, head of Elmridge Primary in Trafford and a member of the By Schools For Schools steering group, says it relies on heads taking a wider view.

The Guardian

But many societies around the world do in fact behave as if loyalty, respect for authority and sanctity are moral concepts, Dr. Haidt notes, and this justifies taking a wider view of the moral domain.

The New York Times - Science

But some say that taking a wider view of the regional economy, there is little difference if a company is in Lower Manhattan or a mile away in Jersey City, where land and construction costs and taxes are lower.

The New York Times

Let's start by taking a wider view of the skills essential for academic life.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"That helps me take a wider view of it.

The Guardian

If Mr. Hoffman got the short end of the stick, his wife takes a wider view.

The New York Times - Travel

As you'd expect, the fishermen take a wider view than the scientists.

The Guardian

While some investors consider Wall Street firms to be inscrutable black boxes, Mr. Miller takes a wider view.

The New York Times

While the potentially heroic cyclist Victoria Pendleton tells us that nothing, absolutely nothing, matters to her more than a successful performance, some take a wider view.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "taking a wider view", ensure that you explicitly state what specific aspects or details were previously overlooked. This provides context and emphasizes the value of the broader perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "taking a wider view" as a vague justification without specifying the relevant factors or perspectives that contribute to the broader context. Clearly articulate the new elements being considered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking a wider view" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun or adjective modifying a verb. As shown by Ludwig AI, it emphasizes the action of considering something from a larger, more comprehensive standpoint.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "taking a wider view" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression that encourages a more comprehensive perspective. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is deemed grammatically correct. It appears commonly in News & Media and Science contexts, advocating for a holistic assessment rather than a narrow focus. When using this phrase, ensure that the specific elements of the broader view are articulated to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "considering the bigger picture" or "adopting a broader perspective" offer similar nuances. While applicable across various registers, clarity in articulating the specifics of the "wider view" is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considering the bigger picture

Replaces "view" with "picture" and focuses on the overall situation.

adopting a broader perspective

Uses "perspective" instead of "view" and "adopting" instead of "taking", maintaining the core meaning.

seeing the forest for the trees

An idiomatic expression that conveys the idea of understanding the overall situation rather than focusing on details.

taking a holistic approach

Emphasizes a comprehensive and interconnected view of a situation.

expanding one's horizons

Focuses on broadening one's understanding or knowledge.

looking at the situation comprehensively

Replaces "taking a view" with a more descriptive phrase emphasizing thoroughness.

thinking outside the box

Suggests a more creative and unconventional approach to problem-solving.

considering all aspects

Highlights the importance of taking all elements of the case into account.

assessing the overall impact

Focuses specifically on evaluating the broader consequences or effects.

generalizing to other aspects

Taking a much more general approach to other aspects, taking everything into account.

FAQs

What does it mean to "take a wider view"?

To "take a wider view" means to consider a situation from a broader perspective, including more factors, context, or implications than initially considered. It involves looking beyond the immediate details to understand the bigger picture.

How can I "take a wider view" in problem-solving?

To "take a wider view" in problem-solving, consider the problem's root causes, its impact on different stakeholders, and potential long-term consequences. Also, consider alternative solutions and their broader implications. Using alternatives like "adopting a broader perspective" or "considering the bigger picture" might help.

What are some situations where "taking a wider view" is important?

"Taking a wider view" is crucial in strategic planning, policy-making, and complex problem-solving. It's also important in personal relationships and ethical decision-making where considering the impact on others is essential.

What are the benefits of "taking a wider view"?

"Taking a wider view" can lead to more informed decisions, better problem-solving, and a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues. It can also foster empathy and help avoid unintended consequences by considering diverse perspectives.