ENGLISH
REFERENCE

bottom line

idiom
Meaning

The summary or result; the most important information.


Origin

disputed origin

A reference to the literal bottom line of an income statement or other accounting record.

Examples
SIMPLE

The bottom line is that we need more money.

CONTEXTUAL

We discussed many options for the project, but the bottom line is that we must finish by Friday.

COMPLEX

While the committee debated the ethical implications for hours, the bottom line remained that the current budget could not support the proposed expansion.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bet one's bottom dollar

    To be absolutely sure of something; to be certain enough of something to wager everything.

  2. 02

    blur the line

    To minimize or erode the distinction between two things.

  3. 03

    bottom dollar

    The last of one's money; all of one's money.

  4. 04

    bottom fishing

    Buying, or seeking opportunities to buy, investment securities or other valuable properties at a time when markets are depressed and prices are low.

  5. 05

    bottom of the line

    The worst or lowest quality on the market, especially among a range of products.

  6. 06

    bottom of the ninth

    By extension, any last chance or final opportunity.

  7. 07

    bottom out

    Of a vehicle, to touch or drag along the ground or other surface.

  8. 08

    bottom the house

    To clean a house from top to bottom; to clean a house extremely thoroughly.

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