scratch the surface
phrase
: to make a modest effort or start
Examples of scratch the surface in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The weight behind this work is generational, perhaps outside of time, and that intangible mystique is barely scratching the surface of what this brand offers its clientele.
—
Rachel Elspeth Gross,
Forbes.com,
30 June 2026
Flores says this helps prevent dirt and debris from being rubbed into and scratching the surface during the cleaning process.
—
Caroline Lubinsky,
Martha Stewart,
27 June 2026
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Rachel Elspeth Gross,
Forbes.com,
30 June 2026
Flores says this helps prevent dirt and debris from being rubbed into and scratching the surface during the cleaning process.
—
Caroline Lubinsky,
Martha Stewart,
27 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Scratch the surface.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scratch%20the%20surface. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.
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