English phrase from drama scenes

What Does "we have just scratched the surface" Mean?

Learn what "we have just scratched the surface" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.

Intermediate
Neutral
Explain
English Phrases for Work

We have just scratched the surface.

This means there is much more to learn or discover, and only a small part has been understood so far.

From Under Her Control, Episode 15

When do people say this?

Scene Context

The speaker says only a small part of the situation has been uncovered so far.

Usage Scenario

Use it when talking about a topic, investigation, or problem that is only partly understood. It is natural in both work and casual speech.

Better ways to say it

1
We've only scratched the surface.
2
We are just scratching the surface.
3
There's much more beneath the surface.

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English Phrases for Work

What Does "we have just scratched the surface" Mean? - ReelFluent