- To discover the fundamental cause, truth, or explanation behind a situation, problem, mystery, or rumour.
Explanation
Origin
- This is a metaphor based on depth. The bottom represents the foundation, the underlying reality, or the ultimate source.
- Getting to the bottom implies digging down through surface appearances, confusion, or layers of misinformation to reach this fundamental truth.
- The phrase has been used since at least the 19th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Find out what the deal is.
- Dig into it.
- Sniff it out.
- Get the lowdown.
- Get the skinny.
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Get to the fucking bottom of this.
- Find out what the hell is going on.
Milder:
- Find the cause.
- Investigate the matter.
- Ascertain the facts.
Situational Appropriateness
- Suitable for most contexts, from informal problem-solving to formal investigations (e.g., legal, journalistic, scientific).
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The meaning is metaphorical (finding the cause/truth), not about literally reaching a physical bottom.
Examples
- The police are determined to get to the bottom of who started the fire.
- We need to get to the bottom of why customer complaints have suddenly increased.
- I'm going to get to the bottom of this strange noise in the attic.
Dialogue
Resident 1: Did you hear those strange rumours about the old house on the hill?
Resident 2: Yes, it's all anyone is talking about! Someone needs to get to the bottom of what's actually happening there.
Resident 1: I agree. It's probably nothing, but the uncertainty is unsettling.
Social Media Examples
- News Headline: Investigators Vow to Get to the Bottom of Recent Cyber Attack.
- Tweet: My energy bills are suddenly sky-high! Time to get to the bottom of what's using so much power. #household #energycrisis
- Forum Post: Experiencing weird glitches in the game since the last update. Let's pool our info and try to get to the bottom of this. #gaming #bugreport
Response Patterns
- Absolutely. We need to find out what's really going on.
- I agree. Let's start investigating.
- Good luck, it sounds complicated.
- Let me know what you find out.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After stating the intention to get to the bottom of something:
- Beginning an investigation: gathering facts, asking questions, analyzing data.
- Discussing potential causes or leads.
- Assigning someone to investigate.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's stated when a problem, mystery, or issue has already been identified and needs investigation.
Intonation
- Stress typically on get, bottom.
- We must GET to the BOTTOM of this.
- Often said with a tone of determination or seriousness.
Generation Differences
- Used commonly across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Common expression in all major English-speaking regions.