To gradually understand or reconstruct something by gathering and assembling separate bits of information or evidence.
This phrase draws from the literal act of assembling a puzzle or repairing something broken by putting fragments back together. Dating from the early 19th century, it reflects the methodical process of reconstruction, whether physical objects or abstract concepts like understanding a complex situation through accumulated clues.
The beauty of this metaphor lies in how it captures the detective-like nature of human understanding - we rarely get complete information all at once, but instead must mentally assemble fragments like puzzle pieces until a coherent picture emerges. It acknowledges that comprehension is often a gradual, methodical process rather than a sudden revelation.
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