The tip of the iceberg

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phrase

A small visible part of a much bigger issue, problem, or situation.

The pollution in our lake is just the tip of the iceberg; there are larger environmental issues at stake.
Visual representation of "the tip of the iceberg" - A small visible part of a much bigger issue, problem, or situation.

Often appears as...

  • just the tip of the iceberg
  • this is the tip of the iceberg

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "the tip of the iceberg"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

This phrase is used metaphorically to suggest that more issues lie below the surface, unseen.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The employee's complaints were the tip of the iceberg, indicating deeper workplace problems.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Hidden Magnitude

It implies a problem or situation is much larger than it appears, with 'the iceberg' being mostly beneath the water's surface.

Illustration for Hidden Magnitude
The budget discrepancies at work were just the tip of the iceberg for the company's financial issues.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conversation Starter

Use this phrase to introduce a topic that has underlying complexities you want to discuss.

Illustration for Conversation Starter
His tardiness was the tip of the iceberg; let's talk about his overall performance.
Visual representation of the word "The tip of the iceberg"

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