overarching concept

[/ˌoʊvərˈɑːrtʃɪŋ ˈkɑːnsept/]
noun phrasepl: overarching concepts
conceito abrangente
1. a comprehensive idea or principle that encompasses or underlies many other concepts, serving as a unifying theme or framework
The overarching concept of the research project is sustainable development.
O conceito abrangente do projeto de pesquisa é o desenvolvimento sustentável.
2. a broad, all-encompassing idea that serves as the foundation for understanding multiple related topics or domains
Justice is the overarching concept that guides all our legal decisions.
A justiça é o conceito abrangente que orienta todas as nossas decisões legais.
This term is widely used in academic, business, and policy-making contexts in both the USA and Brazil. In Brazilian education and corporate environments, 'conceito abrangente' is frequently employed when discussing strategic planning, research frameworks, and organizational philosophy. The phrase reflects a preference for systematic, holistic thinking common in Western academic discourse.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
umbrella conceptfundamental principleguiding ideacentral themecore concept
Antonyms / Antônimos
specific detailnarrow conceptperipheral ideaminor point

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
conceito abrangente
Standard term used in academic and professional contexts
São Paulo
conceito abrangente / ideia-chave
Common in business and academic environments
Rio de Janeiro
conceito abrangente
Used similarly to São Paulo, standard usage
Portugal
conceito abrangente / conceito estruturante
Portuguese variant often uses 'estruturante' to emphasize foundational nature

Related Words

frameworkprincipleparadigmthesisideologyphilosophy

Related Idioms & Phrases

the big picture
the bottom line
the common thread
the underlying principle
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