Tip of the iceberg: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Tip of the iceberg” mean?

"Tip of the iceberg" means that what is visible or known is only a small part of a much larger problem or issue.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The recent scandal is just the tip of the iceberg; there's so much more going on behind the scenes.

Example

The budget cuts are only the tip of the iceberg; there are deeper underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Example

The protests are just the tip of the iceberg; there's a whole movement brewing beneath the surface

Is “Tip of the iceberg” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Tip of the iceberg” 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 “Tip of the iceberg” effectively in context?

You can use "Tip of the iceberg" to convey the idea that a particular situation or problem is just the surface-level manifestation of a much larger and more significant issue. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this expression effectively:

• 1. Scandal

  The recent scandal is just the tip of the iceberg; there's so much more going on behind the scenes.

• 2. Budget Cuts

  The budget cuts are only the tip of the iceberg; there are deeper underlying issues that need to be addressed.

• 3. Protests

  The protests are just the tip of the iceberg; there's a whole movement brewing beneath the surface.

Similar phrases to “Tip of the iceberg”:

The tip of the iceberg

A small, visible part of a much larger problem or issue

Example

The recent scandal is only the tip of the iceberg; there's so much more going on behind the scenes.

The surface

The superficial or visible aspect of a problem or issue

Example

The budget cuts are just scratching the surface; there are deeper underlying issues that need to be addressed.

The thin end of the wedge

The initial stage or action that leads to more significant consequences or developments

Example

The protests are just the thin end of the wedge; there's a whole movement brewing beneath the surface.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Tip of the iceberg” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Tip of the iceberg" can be traced back to the early 20th century. It refers to the fact that only a small portion of an iceberg is visible above the water, while the majority of it remains hidden beneath the surface. This concept was later used metaphorically to describe situations where a small, visible part represents a much larger and more complex problem or issue.

Is “Tip of the iceberg” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Tip of the iceberg" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to emphasize that there is much more to a situation than what meets the eye.

What tone does “Tip of the iceberg” have?

"Tip of the iceberg" conveys a tone of warning or caution. It suggests that the visible part of a problem or issue is just the beginning, and there is a deeper and more significant problem lying beneath the surface.

Can “Tip of the iceberg” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Tip of the iceberg" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as casual conversations, professional discussions, or written communication.

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

While "Tip of the iceberg" is typically used as part of a sentence to provide context and convey its full meaning, it can also be understood when used alone. For example, if someone says, 'That's just the "tip of the iceberg",' it implies that there is much more to the situation than what has been mentioned.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• just the beginning
• only scratching the surface
• the first sign of a bigger problem
• the start of something bigger

Antonyms

• the whole picture
• the complete story
• the final result
• the end of the line