Question 1

What does "scratch the surface" mean?

Accepted Answer

To deal with only a small part of a subject or problem.

Question 2

How do you use "scratch the surface" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

This report barely scratches the surface of the housing crisis.

Question 3

Is "scratch the surface" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"scratch the surface" is register-neutral — appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. Often implies there is much more to explore or solve.