get the gist

get the gist

To understand the central, essential, or general matter of something, such as an argument, speech, concept, process, etc., without being proficient in the more specific details. A: "Did you understand what she was saying?" B: "My Japanese isn't great anymore, but I think I got the gist of it." Bob: "Are you sure you understand what's involved?" Steve: "Yeah, yeah, I get the gist."See also: get