Example: The problems we see are just the tip of the iceberg.
Definition
"The tip of the iceberg" is an expression used to describe a small, visible part of a much larger and often hidden problem or situation, implying that most of the issue lies beneath the surface and is not immediately apparent.
Translations
la punta del iceberg
het topje van de ijsberg
la punta de l'iceberg
la partie émergée de l'iceberg
die Spitze des Eisbergs
Etymology
The phrase "the tip of the iceberg" originates from the natural phenomenon of icebergs, where only a small portion is visible above water while the majority remains submerged. It became a metaphor in the early 20th century to illustrate situations with hidden complexities.
Learn to use this expression actively
"The tip of the iceberg" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
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