the-tip-of-the-iceberg
/ðə tɪp əv ði ˈaɪs.bɜːɡ/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
A small visible part of a much larger problem, situation, or amount. It suggests that the real issue is bigger than what you can see.
- The missing files were just the tip of the iceberg.
- His debt problem was the tip of the iceberg.
- This delay is only the tip of the iceberg.
Adinary Nuance
The tip of the iceberg is not the same as a small part or a simple example. It means the visible part hides something much bigger, often a serious problem. Writers choose it when they want to warn that the real issue is only partly seen.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- phần nổi của tảng băng
- Spanish
- la punta del iceberg
- Chinese
- 冰山一角
- Japanese
- 氷山の一角
- Korean
- 빙산의 일각
Etymology
This phrase comes from the idea that most of an iceberg stays under water. It became common in English in the early 20th century as a metaphor for hidden problems.
Common phrases
only the tip of the icebergjust the tip of the icebergthe visible tip of the iceberg
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is the tip of the iceberg formal or informal?
- It is neutral and common in both spoken and written English.
- Can I use the tip of the iceberg in business writing?
- Yes. It works well when a report wants to show a hidden larger problem.
- What is the difference between the tip of the iceberg and a small part?
- A small part is only a piece. The tip of the iceberg means the hidden part is much bigger.
- How do I use the tip of the iceberg in a sentence?
- Use it after a visible problem or fact: 'The fine was just the tip of the iceberg.'