ðə ˈbɒtəm laɪn
Business
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- The last line in financial statements
What does "the bottom line" mean?
- The most important point or factor
- The ultimate outcome or conclusion
Examples
- The bottom line is we need more funding.
- What's the bottom line on this project?
- Bottom line: we have to cut costs.
Origin
From accounting—the bottom line of a financial statement shows net profit or loss. Extended to mean the essential point.
How to use it
Very common in business. Can introduce a summary or final verdict.
Similar expressions
main point
crux
essential fact
net result
Opposites
minor detail
secondary point
side issue
Related idioms
- on the same page
In agreement or having the same understanding
- cut to the chase
To get to the point without wasting time
- hit the ground running
To start a new job or activity with immediate effectiveness
- in the loop
Included in the flow of information
- get up to speed
To become fully informed about a situation
- think outside the box
To think creatively and unconventionally
Use it in a practice answer
Try "the bottom line" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.