English phrase from drama scenes
What Does "we're barely getting the surface scratched" Mean?
Learn what "we're barely getting the surface scratched" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.
Intermediate
Neutral
Soft
Explain
We're barely getting the surface
It means they have only discovered a small part of something much larger.
From The Winter Veil, Episode 18
When do people say this?
Scene Context
Someone says they have only uncovered part of a bigger mystery.
Usage Scenario
Use this when explaining that there is much more left to learn or uncover. The original line is slightly awkward, so the more natural form is usually better.
Better ways to say it
1
We're barely scratching the surface.
2
We're only scratching the surface.
3
We've only just begun.
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