scheme of things

How everything fits

The scheme of things is the overall order or arrangement of existence—how everything fits together in a larger framework.

The phrase usually appears with modifiers suggesting whose perspective matters: In the grand scheme of things, this setback won't matter much.

It often minimizes immediate concerns by invoking a broader view.

Related
  • setupHow something is arranged
  • systemConnected parts forming whole
  • webInterwoven filament structure
  • status quoExisting condition of affairs
  • linkPoint of connection

underlying · destiny · providence · organization · fate · worldview · structure · cosmos · hierarchy · meaning of life · greater good · chain · paradigm · order · significance · overview · milieu · in the end

Opposites
scope/scale

scheme of thingsminutiae

Petty precise particulars

triviality · minor detail · footnote · technicality · fine print

order/structure

scheme of thingschaos

Complete disorder and confusion

disorder · randomness · meaninglessness · senselessness · purposelessness

Family

scheme, schemes, schemed, scheming, schemer, schemers, schematic, schematically, schematize

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Everyday, not technical · Rated G