under the surface

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under the surface" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is hidden or concealed beneath a seemingly innocuous or benign exterior. For example, "Although everything appeared normal on the surface, tensions between the two families ran far deeper under the surface."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was under the surface.

The New York Times

Anguish is never far under the surface.

The New York Times - Food

But just under the surface anxiety seethes.

The New York Times - Arts

But under the surface they still bubble.

The Economist

Thousands swarmed under the surface, stinging indiscriminately.

The New York Times

But problems were developing under the surface.

The New York Times

That was under the surface.

The New York Times

But under the surface, desperation simmers.

The New York Times

But what was under the surface?

The New York Times - Arts

I want to get under the surface.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Ponytail yanking, kicking, over-the-surface stuff, under-the-surface stuff.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under the surface" to reveal hidden tensions, motivations, or problems that are not immediately visible. It adds depth and complexity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "under the surface" when you are referring to the literal surface of an object. It is best used in metaphorical contexts where you want to imply hidden meanings or aspects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under the surface" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier. It provides context by indicating a hidden or underlying aspect of a situation. Ludwig AI confirms this through its examples of usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under the surface" is a common and versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is hidden, concealed, or not immediately apparent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. It serves to add depth and complexity to writing, suggesting that there's more than meets the eye. While commonly used, avoid using it in literal contexts, as it's best suited for metaphorical implications. Related phrases include "beneath the facade" and "at a deeper level", offering alternative ways to convey similar ideas. Remember to use "under the surface" when you want to reveal hidden tensions, motivations, or problems that aren't immediately visible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beneath the facade

Focuses on the deceptive nature of the outward appearance.

at a deeper level

Indicates a more profound understanding or analysis is required.

in the depths

Suggests something is concealed or deeply rooted.

lurking beneath

Emphasizes a hidden danger or negative aspect.

veiled from view

Highlights the obscurity or concealment of something.

lying hidden

Focuses on the state of being concealed or undiscovered.

not readily apparent

Underlines that something is not immediately obvious.

in the background

Suggests something is present but not immediately noticeable or influential.

out of sight

Highlights the physical or metaphorical absence from view.

in the shadows

Suggests something is hidden and potentially ominous.

FAQs

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

Use "under the surface" to suggest that something is not immediately apparent or visible. For example, "Beneath the surface, the company was struggling with debt."

What are some alternatives to "under the surface"?

Alternatives include phrases like "beneath the facade", "at a deeper level", or "in the depths", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

It's appropriate when you want to imply that there's more to a situation, person, or thing than is immediately obvious. It suggests hidden elements or complexities.

What's the difference between "under the surface" and "on the surface"?

"On the surface" describes what is immediately apparent or obvious, while "under the surface" refers to the hidden or less visible aspects. They are contrasting concepts.