Definition

Adverb 1. Fundamentally, in essence, or in reality: Used to state the most basic, true, or important nature of something or someone, often contrasting with outward appearances or superficial details.

Usage

The phrase "at bottom" is used to introduce the core truth or fundamental characteristic of a subject. It emphasizes what something or someone is really like, stripping away less important aspects.

Examples

• He seems stern, but at bottom he is a very compassionate man.
• Their proposal is, at bottom, a request for more funding.
• The two political parties are, at bottom, not very different on this issue.
• It was a complex legal argument, but at bottom, it was a question of fairness.

Advanced Usage

• Position in a sentence: "At bottom" is often used at the beginning of a clause or sentence for emphasis (e.g., "At bottom, it's a matter of trust."). It can also be placed after the verb "to be" or in the middle of a clause (e.g., "She is at bottom a traditionalist.").
• Contrasting layers: It is frequently employed to contrast an inner, fundamental quality with an outer, superficial one.
  • The movie is a flashy sci-fi adventure, but at bottom it's a classic story about family.

Variants and Related Words

• Basically (adv.): In the most essential respects; fundamentally.
• Essentially (adv.): Used to emphasize the basic, fundamental, or intrinsic nature of a person or thing.
• Fundamentally (adv.): In central or primary respects.
• At heart (idiom): In one's true nature; fundamentally. (e.g., )
• In essence (phrase): Regarding the most important qualities or aspects; basically.

Synonyms

• Basically
• Essentially
• Fundamentally
• In reality
• Ultimately
• Really

Related Idioms

• When you get down to it: An informal idiom with a similar meaning, used to introduce the fundamental point.
  • When you get down to it, success depends on hard work.
• At the end of the day: Another idiom used to introduce the most important fact or consideration after everything else has been discussed.
  • At the end of the day, we all want the same thing.

Adverb

1. in reality
   • she is very kind at heart