greater/better/more than the sum of its parts

idiom

used to say that something is better or more effective as a team, combination, etc., than would be expected when looking at the different parts that form it
The team lacks standout players, but it has proved to be greater than the sum of its parts.

Examples of greater/better/more than the sum of its parts in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yet Danielson’s message of sacrifice and accountability has resonated for this group, providing that extra variable needed to elevate a good team, at a school that has always had to do a little more with a little less and be greater than the sum of its parts. Justin Williams, The Athletic, 30 Dec. 2024 Unlike the overpowering Chiefs teams of Mahomes' past, these back-to-back defending Super Bowl champions are achieving wins by operating greater than the sum of its parts. Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 19 Dec. 2024 Instead of a team that’s better than the sum of its parts, the Patriots have become the get-right game for slumping NFL sides, this time leaving the Cardinals feeling good after having snapped their three-game losing streak. Chad Graff, The Athletic, 16 Dec. 2024 The Denver event blends everything that makes outdoor festivals so fun, and the result is much, much better than the sum of its parts. Outside Online, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for greater/better/more than the sum of its parts 

Dictionary Entries Near greater/better/more than the sum of its parts

Greater Antilles

greater/better/more than the sum of its parts

greater celandine

Cite this Entry

“Greater/better/more than the sum of its parts.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/greater%2Fbetter%2Fmore%20than%20the%20sum%20of%20its%20parts. Accessed 8 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!