At bottom

Meaning

The idiom "at bottom" means to the very lowest point or level, often used to describe someone's character or actions. It can also mean to get to the root cause of a problem or issue.

Usage

• I couldn't believe how dishonest my neighbor was at bottom.
• We need to investigate the matter at its very root, at bottom.
• When I confronted him about his cheating, he tried to deflect and hide it, but eventually, we got to the bottom of it.
• The government is trying to address the issue at bottom, by implementing new policies.
• Despite my suspicions, I wanted to believe in his innocence until the truth came out at the very bottom of the investigation.

Roots and History

The idiom "at bottom" has been used since the 14th century in English. It originally meant "to the lowest point, especially the ground," according to the Oxford English Dictionary. Over time, it evolved to mean "to the deepest level, often figuratively." The idiom may have also influenced by other phrases like "get to the bottom of" and "reach the bottom of," which both convey a similar meaning of reaching the lowest point or level.

Synonyms in English

• To the very bottom/lowest
• In its deepest sense
• In its purest form
• To its roots
• To its heart

Synonyms in other languages

• English: Beneath the surface
• Spanish: En la base
• French: À fond
• German: An der Tiefe
• Italian: Al fondo

Similar Idioms

• actions speak louder than words

• a chain is only as strong as its weakest link

• account for