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to scratch the surface
01
to fail to deal with all aspects of a problem, topic, etc.
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "scratch the surface" and when to use it?
The idiom "scratch the surface" originates from the concept of shallowly or lightly removing a thin layer from the surface of an object. Metaphorically, it implies a limited or superficial understanding or exploration of a subject or topic, without delving deeper into its complexities or underlying details. In other words, the phrase is used to emphasize the need for further investigation or analysis to gain a more comprehensive understanding or uncover hidden aspects.
Exempel
The training session provided basic knowledge, but it only scratched the surface of the complex software's capabilities and features.
He had only a superficial understanding of the topic, having barely scratched the surface in his studies.
The sharp rock accidentally scratched the surface of the car's paint.
The initial investigation revealed some irregularities, but further digging was needed to scrape the surface of the corruption scandal.
The initial investigation only scratched the surface, dealing with the issue superficially.
