the tip of the iceberg
idiomC
A small, visible part of a larger, hidden problem
- 1The financial losses are just the tip of the iceberg; the company has deeper issues.
- 2Her anger was the tip of the iceberg of her overall dissatisfaction.
Imagine an iceberg. The tip you see above the water is just a small part of the whole iceberg hidden beneath the surface. Similarly, when we talk about "the tip of the iceberg," we mean a small, visible part of a bigger problem or issue that is not immediately obvious.
Remember, just like an iceberg, the hidden part is often much larger and more complex than what we can see on the surface. So, always be prepared to dig deeper to uncover the full extent of the problem.
in a field with crops
The Hidden Challenges
Sandra
I noticed some of the crops are wilting.
Stephanie
Yes, but that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Sandra
What do you mean?
Stephanie
There are deeper issues with the soil and irrigation system.
in a corporate setting
Unseen Challenges at Work
Matthew
I just found out that the project is behind schedule.
Betty
That's just the tip of the iceberg. There are more issues with the budget and resources.
Matthew
Oh no, I had no idea it was that serious.
Betty
We need to dig deeper to address everything.
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Similar to "the tip of the iceberg":
- 1surface issue
- 2visible part