looking under the surface

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking under the surface" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the idea of examining something more deeply or thoroughly, beyond the obvious or superficial aspects. Example: "In her analysis of the novel, she emphasizes the importance of looking under the surface to uncover the underlying themes and messages."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"When you look under the surface, they are counting deeds-in-lieu as a modification," said Martin Eakes, chief executive of the Center for Responsible Lending, a nonprofit and nonpartisan research organization.

The New York Times

I don't know exactly what the issue was, and I'm not sure I want to look under the surface.

The New York Times

"Yet there must always be excavation to look under the surface and to extract clear dates from the ruins".

TechCrunch

Radical thinking requires a critical, deep mindset and readiness to look under the surface of different phenomena.

European Journal of Futures Research

But look under the surface and UpWest has some things going for it that suggests it could start producing especially strong batches of companies.

TechCrunch

If you were to take off the religious veil from Exxon and look under the surface, you'll find quite a different story.

Forbes

We have not achieved the results we wanted to but if you look under the surface, he has been pretty good this year.

BBC

London & Country Mortgage expert David Hollingwood said people have been attracted by low interest rates but "they need to look under the surface - some of the arrangement fees ironically have got bigger".

BBC

To find it, you simply have to look under the surface of the commercial pavement.

Huffington Post

How often do you get a chance to look under the surface with your loved one, friends, or work associates?

Huffington Post

But when you look under the surface, it is more open than you might think, and there is no real evidence that its secrecy has helped it succeed.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "looking under the surface", ensure the context clearly indicates what superficial aspect is being contrasted with the deeper analysis. Be specific about what you're investigating.

Common error

Avoid using "looking under the surface" as a mere cliché. Ensure your analysis genuinely provides insights beyond the obvious, rather than just stating the intention to do so.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking under the surface" functions as an idiomatic expression, primarily serving to emphasize the need for a more profound investigation or analysis. It suggests that the obvious or apparent aspects of a situation are insufficient for a complete understanding.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic phrase "looking under the surface" encourages a deeper, more thorough investigation beyond what is immediately apparent. While grammatically sound, Ludwig AI indicates its frequency is very low, although correct and usable. To effectively employ this phrase, ensure a clear contrast between superficial aspects and the in-depth analysis being proposed. Be mindful of avoiding cliché and providing genuine insights, for a more impactful communication. Due to the limited number of examples, we have also included an analysis of the register, frequent contexts, and related phrases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

investigating thoroughly

Focuses on the thoroughness of the investigation.

examining closely

Emphasizes a detailed and attentive examination.

delving deeply

Highlights the depth of exploration.

probing beneath the veneer

Uses a more metaphorical and evocative expression.

scratching the surface

Expresses the action of barely starting an examination.

unearthing the truth

Conveys the idea of discovering hidden facts.

getting to the bottom of things

Focuses on reaching the fundamental cause.

peeling back the layers

Emphasizes a gradual and systematic revelation.

exploring the depths

Highlights the comprehensive nature of the exploration.

unveiling the reality

Suggests a revealing of something previously hidden.

FAQs

How can I use "looking under the surface" in a sentence?

You can use "looking under the surface" to suggest a more in-depth analysis is required, for example, "Looking under the surface of the statistics reveals a troubling trend".

What can I say instead of "looking under the surface"?

You can use alternatives like "delving deeply", "examining closely", or "investigating thoroughly" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "looking under the surface"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that a deeper understanding is needed beyond what is immediately apparent, and a more comprehensive investigation is required to "unearth the truth".

What's the difference between "looking at the surface" and "looking under the surface"?

"Looking at the surface" implies observing only the most obvious or superficial aspects, while "looking under the surface" involves a more thorough examination to uncover hidden or less obvious details.