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Showing results for scratch the surface. Search instead for scratching the surface.
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.

And those don’t even scratch the surface of the sentiments being tossed around on social media.

From Salon • Feb. 23, 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

People move here for the green spaces and transport links, but scratch the surface and many are angry.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2024

Mateo says, which doesn’t really scratch the surface on who they are to me, but I let it slide because this is so wild even Mateo is tearing up for me.

From "They Both Die at the End" by Adam Silvera

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.