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Definitions

scratch the surface

VERB
read
Synonyms
STRONGEST
gather interpret know learn refer to scan see study translate view
STRONG
apprehend comprehend construe decipher discover glance perceive peruse skim unravel
WEAK
bury oneself in dip into flip through go over go through leaf through make out pore over
Antonyms
STRONGEST
forget ignore misinterpret misunderstand neglect overlook
STRONG
lose miss
WEAK
write

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Warren Patterson, head of commodities strategy at Dutch bank ING, agreed, suggesting the US move would "only scratch the surface" of the supply disruption in the Persian Gulf.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

In my short lifespan, I probably won’t do more than scratch the surface of what an orchestra can do, but I’m working on it.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2025

The 13 films below only scratch the surface of Corman’s huge filmography, but they do provide a glimpse into his ambition and his sensibility as both a director and a micro studio boss.

From New York Times • May 12, 2024

"And with these mice, not only can we scratch the surface, but we can dig underneath."

From Science Daily • May 6, 2024

I could see that I was just beginning to scratch the surface of understanding race in America.

From "How Dare the Sun Rise" by Sandra Uwiringiyimana