beneath the surface
Beyond what is obvious.
She saw what was beneath the surface and realized he was not such a bad guy.
ADJ.
above, bent, circular, foolish, lay, ordinary, rude
The foolish decision to ignore the warning lay beneath all the problems that followed.
VERB + BENEATH
colours, conduct, crack, disappear, dreams, glowing, ground, hidden
The old paint began to crack beneath the harsh winter sun and constant freeze-thaw cycles.
BENEATH + NOUN
blanket, chandeliers, contempt, criticism, decency, dignity, feet, floorboards
She found his behavior beneath contempt and refused to speak to him again.
PREP.
down, from, in, on
The old bridge collapsed beneath the weight of the heavy truck.
ADV.
completely, such, vividly
She could vividly remember the fear that lurked beneath the surface of his calm words.