English idiom

the bottom line

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

the most important fact or the final result of something

Why this phrase?

Originally the final 'profit' line of an account; figuratively the key point.

Example

“The bottom line is that we can't afford this project right now.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

a rip-off

Something that is far too expensive for what it is.

ballpark figure

a rough estimate, not an exact number

cost an arm and a leg

To be extremely expensive.

cut your losses

to stop investing in a failing venture in order to avoid further loss

golden rule

the most important rule or principle to follow

in a tight spot

in a difficult or dangerous situation

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

markdown