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bottom line — the most important point or conclusion; the final result or outcome

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: the most important point or conclusion; the final result or outcome

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈbɑːtəm laɪn/

Example Sentences

  • The bottom line is, if you keep eating pizza for breakfast, your health will suffer.
  • Despite the fancy marketing campaign, the bottom line showed disappointing profits.
  • The CEO's bottom line philosophy: 'Work hard, play harder, but always check the numbers!'

bottom line

NOUN

[/ˈbɑːtəm laɪn/]

the most important point or conclusion; the final result or outcome

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈbɑːtəm laɪn/
🇬🇧 UK/ˈbɒtəm laɪn/

🌳Etymology

Origin

This phrase originated in accounting terminology, where the final net profit or loss is recorded on the bottom line of an income statement. The term later expanded metaphorically to mean 'the most essential point' or 'the ultimate result that matters most' in any context.

Breakdown

bottom (lowest position) + line (row or figure) = the final summary figure on a financial statement, figuratively extended to mean the crucial bottom-line truth or essential outcome.

🎵Rhyme

headline
deadline
outline

🔗Collocations

the bottom line is
improve the bottom line
focus on the bottom line
hurt the bottom line
bottom line results
boost the bottom line

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“The bottom line is, if you keep eating pizza for breakfast, your health will suffer.”

“Despite the fancy marketing campaign, the bottom line showed disappointing profits.”

😄 Fun example

“The CEO's bottom line philosophy: 'Work hard, play harder, but always check the numbers!'”

“The bottom line for this project is that we need more time and resources.”

📚Related Words

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