The phrase "tip the iceberg" is spelled /tɪp ði aɪsbɜː(r)ɡ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The initial "t" sound is followed by an "ih" sound, represented by the symbol /ɪ/. The "p" sound is pronounced with a slight release of air represented by the symbol /p/. The "th" sound in "the" is produced with the tip of the tongue between the top and bottom teeth, represented by /ð/. "Iceberg" is pronounced with an "ai" sound, represented by /aɪ/, followed by a soft "s" sound and the "b" sound pronounced with released air, represented by /sb/.
The phrase "tip the iceberg" refers to a situation in which a small or seemingly insignificant part or aspect of a larger problem or issue becomes visible, but it is just the beginning of a much larger, complex, or problematic situation that lies beneath the surface. It often implies that the visible or known part of the problem is just the tip of a massive iceberg that is hidden or not immediately apparent.
The term originated from the idea that only about one-tenth of an iceberg is visible above the waterline, while the remaining nine-tenths are hidden beneath the surface. Similarly, when something is said to "tip the iceberg," it means that the revealed information or problem is just the beginning and there is much more complexity or magnitude to be discovered.
This phrase is commonly used to emphasize that what has been revealed is just a hint of a much larger issue, problem, or consequence. It suggests that there is a myriad of additional factors, complications, or consequences that are yet to be uncovered or fully understood, and that the initial revelation is merely scratching the surface of the true extent or gravity of the situation. Overall, "tip the iceberg" suggests that there is more to the situation than meets the eye and encourages further investigation or exploration to gain a comprehensive understanding.