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scratch the surface

phrase

: to make a modest effort or start

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scratch the/an itch
scratch the surface
scratch the/that itch
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Cite this Entry

“Scratch the surface.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scratch%20the%20surface. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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