There is more to somebody/something than meets the eye

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phrase

There are more complex, deeper aspects or details to someone/something than it initially appears.

John always seems so quiet, but there's more to him than meets the eye - he's actually an accomplished jazz musician.
Visual representation of "there is more to somebody/something than meets the eye" - There are more complex, deeper aspects or details to someone/something than it initially appears

Often appears as...

  • more to it/person than meets the eye
  • there's more to the story than meets the eye

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "there is more to somebody/something than meets the eye"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Hidden Qualities

This phrase often hints at hidden talents or unexpected positive traits in a person or thing.

Illustration for Hidden Qualities
She may be shy, but there's more to her than meets the eye; she's a talented artist.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Avoid Assumptions

Use this phrase to remind others not to judge quickly based on first appearances.

Illustration for Avoid Assumptions
The old building looks run down, but there's more to it than meets the eye—it's actually a historic landmark.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Expression Surprise

It expresses that something or someone has surprised us by having qualities we did not expect.

Illustration for Expression Surprise
This book seemed boring at first, but there’s more to it than meets the eye.
Visual representation of the word "There is more to somebody/something than meets the eye"

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