Meaning and Usage
"顾全大局" literally means "to take care of the overall situation." It is used to describe the attitude or behavior of prioritizing the big picture or collective interests over individual concerns. This phrase is common in contexts like teamwork, leadership, and decision-making.
Pragmatic Nuance
When someone says "顾全大局," they imply a sense of responsibility and maturity, showing that they are willing to compromise personal desires for the greater good. It often appears in formal or semi-formal speech.
Common Collocations
- 顾全大局，牺牲小我 (consider the big picture, sacrifice the small self): emphasizes putting collective interests above personal ones.
- 顾全大局，协调各方 (consider the big picture, coordinate all parties): used in negotiation or management contexts.
Usage Tips
Avoid confusing "顾全大局" with phrases that mean simply "to care about" or "to look after" something small or personal. This phrase always stresses a broad, strategic perspective. It is often used as a verb phrase describing an action or attitude rather than a noun.
Summary
Use "顾全大局" when you want to express the idea of prioritizing overall harmony, strategy, or collective benefit, especially in social, political, or organizational contexts.