English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Bottom line
Meaning
The idiom "bottom line" is used to refer to the most important or essential point of an issue, statement, or decision. It is a phrase that summarizes the main idea or conclusion of something. The figurative meaning of this idiom is to get to the crux of the matter and avoid any unnecessary details or distractions.
Usage
- The bottom line is that we need to cut costs if we want to stay profitable.
- She was too emotional during the meeting, but her boss cut straight to the bottom line.
- I don't care about the details, give me the bottom line.
- After several rounds of negotiations, they finally agreed on the bottom line.
- The bottom line is that we need to hire more employees to meet our production goals.
Roots and History
The origin of the phrase "bottom line" can be traced back to the 19th century in English literature. It was used in a legal context to refer to the final sum or amount owed in a case. Over time, the idiom evolved to mean the most important point or conclusion. In contemporary usage, the idiom is commonly understood as a way to summarize the main idea of something.
Synonyms in English
- Main point
- Core issue
- Crucial point
- Essential element
- Central argument
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: La base de todo ("The foundation of everything") - This idiom is used to refer to the foundation or basis of a concept, idea, or situation.
- German: Der Kern des Problems ("The core of the problem") - This idiom is similar in meaning to "bottom line" and is used to refer to the most important point or conclusion of an issue.
- French: Le message principal ("The main message") - This idiom is used to refer to the most important point or conclusion of a statement or message.
- Italian: La chiave della situazione ("The key to the situation") - This idiom is used to refer to the most crucial or significant aspect of a situation.
- Russian: Центральный вопрос ("Central question") - This idiom is used to refer to the main or essential point of an issue or problem.