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.

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

Scratch the surface of American politics or culture, and medievalism seems to always be lurking just beneath.

From Slate

These barely scratch the surface of what “Twin Peaks” came to mean to TV and popular culture more broadly, and if you need a reminder or have yet to fall under the spell of Kyle MacLachlan’s FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper, now is the time.

From Salon

There are also enameled cast-iron pans that you don’t need to season, however, while you can put them in the oven and use them at high heat, the enameled coating does mean you can’t use metal utensils and must be careful not to scratch the surface.

From Salon

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