scratch the surface

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

But scratch the surface and the identity of the group is a fluid blend of cultures.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 22, 2026

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