'big picture' - '...perspective...'

big picture


 : the entire perspective on a situation or issue —  used with the



Hi all,  

This is Merriam Webster's definition for 'big picture'. And my question is what does 'perspective' mean in this context? There are quite a few definitions for 'perspective' and I am having trouble identifying the intended meaning. 

1 a : the technique of representing on a plane or curved surface the space relationships of natural objects as they appear to the eye  b : the technique of adjusting the apparent sources of sounds (as on a radio program) into a natural-seeming and integrated whole  c : a picture or figure that looks distorted except when viewed from some particular point

2 a : the interrelation in which parts of a subject are mentally viewed : the aspect of an object of thought from a particular standpoint : CONFIGURATION thrown into a fresh perspective* *time and experience, which alter all perspectives— Henry Adams*  b : capacity to view things in their true relations or relative importance *some folks cannot see the wood for the trees, while other have perspective

3 a (1) : a visible scene;  especially   : one giving a distinctive impression of distance : VISTA (2) : a mental view or prospect  b : a picture in linear perspective;  specifically   : a scenic picture giving an effect of extension of the vista (as on a stage)

4 : the appearance to the eye of objects in respect to their relative distance and positions

5 : HOMOLOGY 4 two geometric configurations in perspective* *center of perspective

6 a : a perceptible appearance  b : appearance of a thing at a given place and time conceived (as by Bertrand Russell) as something actually existing at that place and time even when no perceiver is present and as being a constituent of the object whose appearance it is

  –in perspective  1 : as viewed in the mind : in prospect : ANTICIPATED  2 a : represented according to the principles of perspective  b : viewed with a proper pattern of relationships as to value, importance, or other basic quality keeping the temporary advantage strictly in perspective

Thank you

PBF