pur·view 
(pûrvy′)
(pûrvy′)n.
1. The extent or range of activity, function, power, or competence; scope. See Synonyms at range.
2.
a. Range of vision: "Craning her neck, [she] extends her purview to the faculty lounge" (Rachel Kadish).
b. Range of understanding or experience.
3. Law
a. The body or main part of a statute, as distinguished from its preamble.
b. The general scope and coverage of a statute.
[Alteration (influenced by VIEW) of Middle English purveu, proviso, from Anglo-Norman purveu est, it is provided (from the use of this word to introduce a proviso), past participle of purveier, to provide; see PURVEY.]