bottom line is

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phraseinformal

   Used to introduce the most important fact or conclusion after other details have been discussed.

   Grammar: Often followed by a clause: The bottom line is (that) we need more money.

   Patterns

   • the bottom line is (that) ...
   • the bottom line is ...

   We can discuss the details later, but the bottom line is that we need to finish by Friday.

   The bottom line is, if we don't reduce costs, the company will fail.

   He talked for an hour, but the bottom line is he doesn't want to sell.

2. 2phrasefixed phrasebusiness

   The final result or the most important figure in a financial report, especially net profit or loss.

   Grammar: Used in business contexts; often followed by a number or a statement about profit.

   Patterns

   • the bottom line is ...
   • the bottom line is that ...

   After all expenses, the bottom line is a profit of $2 million.

   The bottom line is that we lost money this quarter.

   Investors only care about the bottom line is profit.

Common combinations

the bottom line is that

The bottom line is that we have to make a decision today.

the bottom line is profit

For many shareholders, the bottom line is profit, not social responsibility.

the bottom line is simple

The bottom line is simple: work harder or lose your job.

Synonyms and how they differ

the main point is

The main point is is slightly more formal and neutral; the bottom line is is more informal and often suggests a practical or financial conclusion.

in short

In short summarizes everything briefly; the bottom line is focuses on the single most important fact or result.

Word family

bottom line noun

The final profit or loss; the most important fact.

Practice

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Write a sentence using “bottom line is”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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