scratch the surface
Meaning
To deal with or discover only a small part of a subject or problem; not go into depth.
Origin
From the literal idea of lightly scratching a surface without cutting deeply; used metaphorically since at least the 19th century to mean “only a superficial start.”
Notes
Implies superficial coverage and that much more remains. Common in academic, analytical, and everyday contexts; often used with “only/barely/hardly.”
Examples
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We’ve only scratched the surface of what this software can do.
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The documentary is compelling, but it barely scratches the surface of the issue.
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After one lesson, I felt like I’d just scratched the surface of Japanese grammar.
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The audit report scratches the surface, yet the deeper problems remain hidden.
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Reading a few articles will scratch the surface, but real understanding takes time.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as a verb phrase: “scratch the surface (of + noun).” Tense/person can change (scratched/scratching). Often preceded by “only/barely/hardly/just.”
Synonyms
- skim the surface
- only touch on
- gloss over
- scratch at
Antonyms
- go into depth
- get to the bottom of it
- delve into
- exhaustively cover