The devil is in the details
Meaning
This idiom means that small, often overlooked aspects of a plan or task can contain hidden complexities or problems that lead to significant difficulties.
Origin
The saying "The devil is in the details" is a twist on an older, more optimistic adage: "God is in the details." This original German proverb, "Der liebe Gott steckt im Detail," championed meticulousness, suggesting that true beauty and perfection are found in careful attention to every small component, a philosophy often embraced by artists and architects. As the 20th century unfolded, the phrase evolved, perhaps reflecting a growing pragmatism or even cynicism about complex projects. The benevolent 'God' was swapped for 'the devil,' transforming the meaning from a celebration of precision to a cautionary warning: seemingly simple plans often conceal tricky, time-consuming problems that only emerge when one delves into the intricate specifics. It became a sharp reminder that neglect of the minutiae can lead to significant setbacks, where hidden complexities lie waiting to trip up the unwary.
Examples
- We thought launching the new website would be straightforward, but then we realized the devil is in the details when dealing with data migration and user permissions.
- The architect warned them that while the initial design looked perfect, the devil is in the details when it comes to plumbing, electrical wiring, and local building codes.