1. Literally, to look some distance past or in front of someone or something. It was impossible to see beyond the person directly in front of us in the snow storm. You can't see beyond the bend on these sharp turns, so you'll need to take them very slowly. I tried to see beyond the two police officers guarding the door to figure out what was happening inside.

2. To imagine, perceive, or anticipate the future as it will occur after some point or occurrence in time. A few savvy investors were able to see beyond the dire financial situation, setting themselves up for huge profits down the line. You have to learn to see beyond the issues you're having in the here and now if you're going to figure out how to improve things in the future.

3. To perceive or understand things that happen or exist outside the limits or scope of something. You've got to see beyond your own petty issues and realize that there are much more important things at stake right now. The CEO is trying to see beyond the company's current role in the market in order to expand and diversify its revenue streams.