To discern an overall pattern from a mass of detail; to see the bigger picture, or the broader, more general situation. Generally used in the negative.
“
Smith is good at detail, but can't see the forest for the trees.
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"see the forest for the trees." Phrases.net. STANDS4 LLC, 2013. Web. 23 May 2013. <http://www.phrases.net/phrase/6632>.