How do you understand the phrase?

The phrase "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts" is a proverb used to describe the idea that the combined value of a group of things is greater than the individual values of those things when taken separately. It is used to illustrate the idea that the collective efforts of a group of individuals can create something greater than the individual efforts of each person. This is often used to describe the power of teamwork or collaboration, as well as the idea that the whole can be greater than the sum of its parts. For example, a team of four people working together can create something more powerful than each of them working alone. Similarly, a group of people working together can have a greater impact than each individual working separately. This proverb is also used to describe the idea that the whole can be more than the sum of its parts in terms of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. For example, a group of people can come up with creative solutions to a problem that one individual may not be able to come up with on their own.

Overall, the proverb “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” is used to describe the idea that the combined effort of a group of individuals can create something greater than the individual efforts of each person. It is a reminder that collaboration and teamwork can be powerful tools for creating something greater than the individual parts.