the tip of the iceberg
Say it: the TIP of the ICE-burg /ðə ˌtɪp əv ði ˈaɪsbɜːɡ/ · idiom
What “the tip of the iceberg” means
A small visible part of a much bigger hidden problem.
More precisely: A small, visible part of a much larger hidden problem.
Example: “The leaked emails were just the tip of the iceberg.”
When to use it
In serious everyday or work conversations, when a discovered problem suggests much more remains hidden.
Similar words
just the beginning, a small part
Quick check
One faulty socket leads an electrician to discover damaged wiring throughout the house. What was that first fault?
the tip of the iceberg or the last straw?
Show the answer
the tip of the iceberg
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