Scratch the surface: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Scratch the surface” mean?

"Scratch the surface" means to only understand or see a small part of something, without knowing or understanding the whole thing.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I've only scratched the surface of this topic, there's so much more to learn.

Example

The documentary scratched the surface of the issue, but didn't delve deeper into the complexities.

Example

Don't judge a book by its cover, you need to scratch the surface to truly understand it

Is “Scratch the surface” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Scratch the surface” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Scratch the surface” effectively in context?

You can use "Scratch the Surface" to describe a situation where you have only superficially explored or understood something, without delving deeper into its complexities. For example, if someone asks you about your knowledge of a particular subject, you might say, 'I've only scratched the surface of this topic, there's so much more to learn.'

• 1. Learning

  After attending a few classes, she realized she had only scratched the surface of the subject and needed to study more.

• 2. Research

  The article provided a basic overview, but it only scratched the surface of the issue without going into detail.

• 3. Judgment

  Don't judge a book by its cover, you need to scratch the surface to truly understand it.

Similar phrases to “Scratch the surface”:

Tip of the iceberg

A small, visible part of a larger problem or issue

Example

The corruption scandal was just the tip of the iceberg, there were deeper issues at play.

Superficial understanding

Having only a shallow or surface-level understanding of something

Example

He claimed to know a lot about the topic, but his understanding was superficial.

Dip one's toes

To briefly experience or explore something without fully committing

Example

She decided to dip her toes into the world of entrepreneurship before fully starting her own business.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Scratch the surface” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Scratch the Surface" is unknown.

Is “Scratch the surface” common in everyday conversation?

"Scratch the Surface" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to convey the idea of having limited knowledge or understanding of a subject or situation.

What tone does “Scratch the surface” have?

"Scratch the Surface" conveys a tone of curiosity and acknowledgement of limited knowledge. It suggests that there is more to discover and understand beyond what is initially apparent.

Can “Scratch the surface” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "scratch the surface" is informal and commonly used in both casual and formal settings. It can be used in conversations with friends, colleagues, and even in professional contexts such as presentations or reports.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I've only scratched the surface of this topic, there's so much more to learn.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "scratch the surface"!' to imply the need for further exploration.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• superficial knowledge
• limited understanding
• surface-level comprehension
• partial insight

Antonyms

• in-depth knowledge
• comprehensive understanding
• thorough analysis
• full grasp