Question 1

What does "the tip of the iceberg" mean?

Accepted Answer

A small, visible part of a much larger problem or situation.

Question 2

How do you use "the tip of the iceberg" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

The complaints we've received are just the tip of the iceberg.

Question 3

Is "the tip of the iceberg" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"the tip of the iceberg" is register-neutral — appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. Implies that most of the problem is hidden from view.