ENGLISH
REFERENCE

put the bottom rail on top

idiom
Meaning

To reverse a hierarchy.


Examples
SIMPLE

The new manager wants to put the bottom rail on top.

CONTEXTUAL

By giving the interns full control over the project, the CEO decided to put the bottom rail on top.

COMPLEX

The revolutionary movement sought to put the bottom rail on top, dismantling the long-standing power structures that had marginalized the working class for generations.

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

    bottom dollar

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

  3. 03

    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.

  4. 04

    bottom line

    The summary or result; the most important information.

  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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