bird's eye view
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A broad, overall perspective: A view or understanding of something from a high position, as if seen by a bird in flight, allowing one to see the whole of an area or the general aspects of a situation rather than the details. 2. A comprehensive survey or summary: A general description or review that covers all the main parts or features of a subject.
Usage
- Used to describe a physical view from a high vantage point.
- Used figuratively to describe a general understanding or summary of a complex topic, plan, or situation.
Examples
- From the top of the tower, we had a bird's eye view of the entire city.
- The manager provided a bird's eye view of the company's five-year strategy before delving into departmental specifics.
- The documentary begins with a bird's eye view of the historical events leading to the war.
- This chart gives a bird's eye view of our project timeline and major milestones.
Advanced Usage
- "To get/have a bird's eye view": To obtain or possess a broad, overall understanding.
- Before we analyze the data, let's get a bird's eye view of the market trends.
- "To offer/provide a bird's eye view": To give a general summary or overview.
- The introductory chapter provides a bird's eye view of the book's main arguments.
Variants and Related Words
- Overview (n): A general review or summary of a subject. (A close synonym, often used interchangeably in figurative contexts).
- Panorama (n): An unbroken view of a wide area. (More commonly used for a physical, wide-angle view).
- Vantage point (n): A place or position offering a good view. (Can be used both literally and figuratively).
Synonyms
- Overview
- Broad perspective
- General picture
- Survey
- Synopsis
Antonyms
- Worm's-eye view
- Close-up
- Detailed analysis
- Nitty-gritty
Related Idioms and Phrases
- "See the big picture": To understand the overall perspective or long-term implications of a situation. (Similar in figurative meaning to having a bird's eye view).
- We need to step back and see the big picture before making a decision.
- "From on high": From a position of authority or a high vantage point. (Can imply a detached or commanding perspective).
- The directives came from on high, with little explanation.
Noun
- a situation or topic as if viewed from an altitude or distance