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the tip of the iceberg

a small visible part of a much larger problem

In Idioms & Sayings

In more detail

(idiom) a small or visible part of a much larger problem or situation that is mostly hidden or unknown

Examples

• The corruption scandal we discovered is just the tip of the iceberg; there's likely much more we haven't found yet.

How to use the tip of the iceberg

This idiom is used when something observable suggests a much larger, usually problematic situation beneath the surface. It conveys that what is immediately visible represents only a minor portion of a bigger issue. It commonly appears in discussions of scandals, corruption, social problems, or difficult situations where initial evidence hints at deeper troubles.

Common phrases

• just the tip of the iceberg
• only the tip of the iceberg
• the tip of the iceberg reveals
• mere tip of the iceberg
• see only the tip of the iceberg

Synonyms

just the beginning · the thin end of the wedge · a small fraction · the visible part · a glimpse

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use it to mean simply a small amount, without implying the hidden larger context or problem that lies beneath.

Nearby in Idioms & Sayings

hit the sack, beat around the bush, once in a blue moon, cut corners, bite the bullet, break the ice

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained