Meaning: This idiom means being unable to understand or appreciate a situation because you are too focused on the details. It implies missing the bigger picture by concentrating too much on small aspects.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “She’s so focused on the minor details of the project that she can’t see the wood for the trees and is missing the overall strategy.”
- “He was so caught up in the daily operations that he couldn’t see the wood for the trees and failed to recognize the long-term goals.”
- “When planning an event, it’s important not to get so bogged down in the logistics that you can’t see the wood for the trees.”
Origin: The origin of the idiom “can’t see the wood for the trees” is believed to be British and dates back to the 16th century. “Wood” is the British term for what Americans call a “forest.” The phrase illustrates a situation where someone is so immersed in the details (the trees) that they lose sight of the overall situation or context (the wood or forest). This idiom highlights the importance of maintaining perspective and being able to balance attention to detail with an understanding of the broader context.
