at bottom

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The phrase "at bottom" is an adverbial expression that means "in reality" or "fundamentally." It is often used to refer to the true or essential nature of something, suggesting that despite appearances, there is a deeper truth.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "at bottom" when you want to emphasize the real truth or core of a situation, especially if it contrasts with what is seen on the surface.
• It is often used in more formal or literary contexts, so it might not be common in everyday conversation.

Example:

• "At bottom, he is a very kind person, even if he sometimes seems rude." (This means that although he may appear rude, his true nature is kind.)

Advanced Usage:

• You can use "at bottom" in discussions about philosophy, psychology, or when analyzing complex situations to highlight the essential truths that might be overlooked.

Word Variants:

• There aren't direct variants of "at bottom," but it can be synonymously replaced with phrases like "deep down," "essentially," or "fundamentally."

Different Meaning:

• "At bottom" primarily conveys the idea of the fundamental nature of something. It does not have multiple meanings but is used in contexts that require understanding the essence of a situation or character.

Synonyms:

• Essentially
• Fundamentally
• At heart
• Deep down

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• While "at bottom" itself is not an idiom, you might encounter phrases like:
  • "At heart" – which conveys a similar idea of the true nature of someone or something.
  • "In essence" – which also points to the core essence of a matter.

Academic

Adverb

1. in reality
   • she is very kind at heart

Synonyms

• at heart
• deep down
• inside
• in spite of appearance