More than meets the eye
Meaning
There are hidden complexities or deeper realities to a situation, person, or object that are not immediately apparent.
Origin
In an age of burgeoning scientific inquiry and philosophical introspection, 17th-century thinkers began to question the world with a new intensity, peeling back layers of superficiality to reveal deeper truths. It was a time when intellects sought to uncover the hidden mechanisms of the universe and the subtleties of human nature. This burgeoning skepticism towards mere appearances found a perfect articulation in the phrase "more than meets the eye," which famously appeared in William Wotton’s 1694 work, Reflections Upon Ancient and Modern Learning. Wotton cautioned readers that "There is usually more than meets the Eye, in those specious Pretences," solidifying the phrase as a crisp reminder to always look beyond the obvious facade and discover the rich, unseen complexities beneath.
Examples
- The quiet, unassuming librarian turned out to be a celebrated mountaineer, proving there was certainly more than meets the eye to her.
- At first glance, the old, neglected painting seemed worthless, but after restoration, it became clear there was more than meets the eye beneath the layers of grime.