Tip of the iceberg
English Idiom
Meaning: This phrase refers to a small, visible part of something much larger and often hidden. It implies that what is seen is just a minor part of the issue or situation, with the bulk remaining unseen and possibly more significant.
Origin: The idiom 'tip of the iceberg' originates from the fact that only a small portion of an iceberg is visible above water, while the majority lies beneath the surface. This metaphor was first used in the early 20th century to illustrate situations where the visible part is only a fraction of the whole.
Examples
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The recent scandal is just the tip of the iceberg; the company's ethical issues run much deeper.
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Her cheerful demeanor at work is just the tip of the iceberg; she's dealing with significant personal problems at home.
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The initial report on climate change is only the tip of the iceberg; the detailed study reveals far more alarming data.
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The symptoms he showed were merely the tip of the iceberg; further tests uncovered a severe underlying condition.
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The financial losses reported are just the tip of the iceberg; the full extent of the fraud is still being investigated.
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The visible part of the project delays is just the tip of the iceberg; internal mismanagement is the real issue.
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The complaints from customers are just the tip of the iceberg; the product has fundamental design flaws.
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What you've seen in the documentary is merely the tip of the iceberg; the reality is much more complex and disturbing.
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The surface-level disagreements in the team are just the tip of the iceberg; there are deeper conflicts that need resolution.
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His public statements are just the tip of the iceberg; his private communications reveal his true intentions.