Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to see something in black and white
idiom
/tuː siː ˈsʌmθɪŋ ɪn blæk ənd waɪt/
Definition
To view a situation in a very clear-cut way, without recognizing nuances or complexities.
Examples
- Many people tend to see the debate on climate change in black and white, disregarding the various opinions in between.
- If you see everything in black and white, you may miss important details that could change your perspective.
Meaning
This phrase often implies a simplistic perspective on an issue, ignoring the grey areas that may exist between two extremes.
Synonyms
- oversimplify
- reduce to extremes
- see only the obvious
- literal interpretation
