get to the bottom of
Meaning
To find the real cause, truth, or details of something, especially after investigating.
Origin
From the literal idea of reaching the bottom of something deep (a container, well, pit). Metaphorically, it came to mean probing past the surface to uncover the underlying truth or cause.
Notes
Often used with issues, mysteries, complaints, or problems. Implies a thorough investigation to uncover the truth, not just a quick guess.
Examples
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We need to get to the bottom of why the server keeps crashing.
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The detective promised the victimโs family he would get to the bottom of the case.
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If you share the timeline, I can help get to the bottom of what went wrong.
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The manager launched an audit to get to the bottom of the missing funds.
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After several tests, the doctor finally got to the bottom of her persistent cough.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as โget to the bottom of + noun/gerundโ (e.g., the issue/what happened). Can be inflected: got to the bottom of, getting to the bottom of. Often with will/need to/try to.
Synonyms
- get to the root of
- find out
- uncover
- figure out
- get to the truth of
Antonyms
- gloss over
- leave it at that
- let it go
- accept at face value